Do you ever experience uncontrollable fear, restlessness, or trouble focusing? You’re not alone. About 10 to 20% of older adults have anxiety, according to the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry.

Anxiety in older adults can affect your ability to function, quality of life, and overall health. Learning how to manage your symptoms may be essential to your longevity.

Though anxiety is a common illness among seniors, not many people know how to cope with their symptoms. How can you improve your senior mental health? Read on to find out!

Causes of Senior Mental Health Symptoms

To start managing anxiety in aging seniors, it helps to identify where the anxiety stems from. Multiple environmental and situational triggers can cause anxiety, including:

Childhood trauma
Loss of independence
Stressful life events
Limited physical mobility
Certain medications
Misuse or abuse of medications or alcohol
Chronic health conditions
Sleep disturbances
Financial insecurity

Physiological risk factors may cause anxiety disorders in seniors. For example, extreme stress may cause a chemical imbalance. Anxiety is also hereditary.

Identifying the root causes of your anxiety may help you recognize an easy solution. For example, perhaps you feel like you’ve lost your independence. Consider moving into a senior living community in northeast Albuquerque like Morada Quintessence.

According to the World Health Organization, social isolation and loneliness are risk factors for mental health conditions. At Morada Quintessence, you can make new friends and discover daily opportunities to socialize. Explore your senior living community’s events calendar for the following:

Volunteering programs
Leisure and education services
Social skills training
Creative arts groups
Befriending initiatives
Community and support groups

Relying on professional services and amenities will allow you to maintain your independence in a healthy, safe environment.

Signs of Stress and Aging

Anxiety symptoms can vary between people. Potential physical symptoms may include:

Frequent urination
Hot flashes
Headaches
Heart palpitations
Excessive sweating
Tense muscles
Nausea
Shortness of breath
Trembling
Dry mouth
Cold or sweaty hands

Anxiety may exacerbate your existing physical health issues. It could cause high blood pressure, muscle tension, and heart rate spikes, which can strain your musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems.

Anxiety in older adults may contribute to cognitive decline. For example, constant stress may affect your memory and decision-making abilities. It’s sometimes mistaken for age-related cognitive decline disorders like dementia.

Behavioral or mental symptoms may include the following:

Nightmares
Insomnia
Obsessive thoughts
Uncontrollable fear or panic
Ritualistic behaviors
Refusing to engage in activities
Difficulty focusing
Memory issues
Restlessness

If you experience these signs of stress and aging, consult a physician for a diagnosis. Otherwise, these symptoms may affect your ability to function.

Consider moving into a senior living community if these symptoms are already affecting your routine. You can rely on the experienced staff at Morada Quintessence for help with managing anxiety in aging.

Managing Anxiety in Aging Seniors

According to the journal Psychiatric Services, over 50% of older adults symptomatic for a clinical diagnosis don’t use mental health services. Some seniors avoid help out of a lack of understanding or shame. However, seeking help may improve your daily functionality and quality of life.

Anxiety is considered a chronic health condition that requires medical treatment. It’s treated using medication, talk therapy, or a combination of the two.

Talk therapy is conducted with a counselor or therapist. They may recommend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or exposure therapy.

CBT involves identifying harmful thought patterns to reframe your way of thinking. Exposure therapy involves tackling your fears head-on.

A medical professional may recommend prescription medication to ease your anxiety. These may include:

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors
Tricyclic antidepressants
Anti-anxiety medications
Antidepressants
Beta-blockers

Consult a medical professional to determine which treatments best suit your needs.

Relaxation Techniques for Seniors

Making changes to your lifestyle and routine may improve your emotional well-being. Here are some relaxation techniques for seniors you can use to better manage your anxiety.

Talk

Look for a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can openly express your emotions. You can find support groups through your northeast Albuquerque senior living community.

Talking to other seniors will validate your feelings. Knowing you’re heard and understood can be comforting.

Exercise

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle may help you manage anxiety symptoms. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily. Explore Assisted Living at Morada Quintessence’s health program for exercise classes and walking groups.

Relax

Try different relaxation techniques for seniors, such as:

Yoga
Mindfulness
Meditation
Deep breathing

These activities may ease your physical symptoms and help you relax. Explore your senior living community’s activities calendar for upcoming classes.

Avoid Stimulants

Some substances can exacerbate your anxiety symptoms. These can include the following:

Nicotine
Over-the-counter cold medications
Caffeine
Alcohol
Certain herbal supplements

According to the scientific journal Nutrients, diet affects our mental health and stress. Adjusting your diet may help prevent stress-related mental disorders.

Consult our team at Morada Quintessence. Our dining program can help you make informed changes to your diet. For example, eating anti-inflammatory foods may benefit your mood, appetite, and mental health.

Sleep

Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep every night. Otherwise, sleepiness can worsen your anxiety symptoms.

To get enough sleep, consider doing the following:

Improve your sleep environment
Maintain a schedule
Control your exposure to light
Avoid bright screens before bed
Exercise during the day
Avoid alcohol before bed
Follow a heart-healthy diet

Having a comfortable living space could help you fall and stay asleep each night. Consider moving into a senior living community. You can rest and relax in a community of calm and comfort.

Easing Anxiety in Older Adults

Though anxiety in older adults is common, not many seniors know how to manage their symptoms. Use these relaxation tips for seniors to improve your emotional well-being. Remember, you can always ask for help.

Our team at Morada Quintessence offers personalized care and service, allowing you to maintain a relaxed way of life. Stay immersed in the vast wonders of the southwest, enjoy exclusive senior lifestyle programs, and enrich your life. Contact us to schedule a tour of our senior living community in Albuquerque, NM!