For seniors, anxiety can become a significant issue affecting their ability to complete daily activities, and potentially leading to an increased incidence of insomnia or depression. The lack of sleep brought about by insomnia can exacerbate their anxiety, and affect their overall health causing other health conditions to worsen. Experts recommend not dismissing anxiety in the elderly as something that comes with age. Rather, they suggest digging deeper to determine if a senior’s anxiety is normal and manageable. A doctor can check if a treatable anxiety disorder is causing a senior’s high anxiety levels. Early detection and treatment can improve their well-being.
It is fairly normal for seniors to worry about declining health, financial issues and similar concerns. What is not typical is to worry obsessively about day-to-day events and activities for six months or longer. Living in a constant, heightened state of anxiety and worry can affect seniors profoundly. In seniors this can lead them to significantly limit their activities and experience sleep issues, depression and other repercussions.
Although there are many different types of anxiety disorders, experts note that researchers have found that generalized anxiety disorder may be the most common anxiety disorder among seniors. In the past, doctors have not always identified and treated anxiety disorders in seniors. They may have failed to recognize that it manifests itself differently in seniors than younger people. Because anxiety is common and can have a significant impact on a senior’s life, it is important that any treatable anxiety disorders are identified and managed to improve the senior’s quality of life and prevent further deterioration and depression.
Anxiety disorders manifest differently in older adults compared to younger individuals. Treatment may need to vary accordingly. It can be adapted based on the individual’s age, other health conditions, and current medications. It is possible that regularly seeing a therapist can provide a great deal of relief for some individuals. Others may require medication, and others may benefit from a combination of these treatment options. Experts advise contacting a doctor, therapist, or psychiatrist. These professionals can provide the best options for a senior with unusual anxiety levels. Early intervention can significantly improve the senior’s quality of life.
If you think that your senior loved one could benefit from our companion care services, call Assisting Hands Home Care in Fort Myers, FL at (239) 337-4263.
