4 Tips for Managing Anxiety in Older Adults

Whether it’s worrying about finding the right senior living facility, managing health changes, or facing the unknown of what the future holds, anxiety is a common experience for older adults. Such anxieties can take a toll on mental and physical well-being. But the good news is, there are effective strategies for managing. 

Here are 4 helpful tips.  

Create a Structured Routine

Getting a routine going means things are more predictable, which can really help dial down uncertainty and make someone feel more secure. Basically, having a set schedule means you get to decide how you spend your time, giving you more independence and control.

So:

  • Work to plan out your daily schedule, making sure it fits your preferences, interests, and abilities.
  •  Try to stick to regular meal times, exercise routines, and bedtimes to keep your day on track.
  • While it’s good to have a routine, don’t stress if things don’t always go according to plan. Stay open to changes as they come along.

Address Health Concerns

Taking care of physical health issues can really make a difference in how you feel mentally. Also, some medications might be causing anxiety, so it’s important to find out about any side effects.

You want to:

  • Make sure you’re seeing your doctor regularly to keep an eye on your health and catch any problems early.
  • And of course talk to your healthcare team about your meds. They can help you figure out if any changes are needed to reduce anxiety.

Stay Connected

Keeping in touch with friends and family can really boost your mood and help you feel less anxious. Being part of a community or group gives you a sense of connection and support.

So:

  • Make an effort to stay in touch with loved ones, whether it’s through phone calls, video chats, or in-person visits.
  • Consider joining clubs, classes, or community organizations where you can meet new people and engage in activities you enjoy.
  • Helping others can be a great way to feel connected and purposeful. Look for volunteer opportunities in your community that align with your interests and skills.

Get into Hobbies and Distractions

Engaging in hobbies or distractions can provide a much-needed break from worries and anxieties.

You want to:

  • Spend time on hobbies or interests you used to enjoy but may have neglected. Whether it’s painting, gardening, or playing music, find what brings you joy.
  • Explore new hobbies or activities that pique your interest. Take a cooking class, learn a new language, or try your hand at photography.
  • Fully immerse yourself in the activity, focusing on the present moment and letting go of stressors. Allow yourself to get lost in the creative process or the challenge of learning something new.

So, when it comes to handling anxiety in older adults, you want to focus on creating routines, dealing with health issues, getting support, and finding enjoyable distractions. 

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