Senior Stress and Management Techniques
Seniors in South Jordan, UT, understand stress as well as anyone. By the time you reach your senior years, you've already navigated many stressful situations and may expect to experience less stress going forward. But even though some seniors have retired, raised their families, and paid off their homes, they still experience stress. Read on to learn more about common stressors for seniors, the signs and symptoms of stress, and ways to manage it.
Common Stressors for Seniors
Stress can be very draining for seniors. Seniors become less physically resilient as they age because injuries begin to heal more slowly and illnesses become more difficult to recover from. Age-related health and lifestyle changes are major sources of emotional stress for seniors. Some stressful milestones in seniors' lives include:
- Lifestyle Changes. Changes to finances and living situations cause upheaval in many seniors' lifestyles.
- Caring for Others. Whether babysitting grandchildren or caring for a sick family member, seniors often experience stress while taking care of others.
- Loss of Loved Ones. Seniors become well-acquainted with grief and loss as long-time friends and family pass away.
- Physical or Medical Limitations. Many seniors experience frustration and helplessness from the loss of physical abilities and chronic illness.
Signs and Symptoms of Stress in Seniors
The stresses that seniors face can inflame existing health conditions, which, in turn, creates more stress. Stress can cause physical or mental health issues and speed up the aging process. Symptoms of stress in seniors can include:
- Insomnia
- Palpitations
- Muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Frequent urination
- Loss of appetite
- Anxiety
- Frustration
- Depression
- Forgetfulness
- Poor concentration
Many signs of stress in seniors correlate with other serious medical conditions, and most stressed seniors don't experience every symptom of stress, so it's best to consult with your doctor when any new symptoms occur. Also, your primary care physician will have treatment options that can assist with managing stress.
Stress Management Tips for Seniors
How you handle stress is an important factor in your quality of life. "Successful agers" tend to share a few behaviors: They maintain relationships with friends and family, engage in physical activity, and figure out how to both reduce and regulate their stress levels. Seniors may manage their stress levels with:
- Physical Exercise. Low-impact aerobic activities such as walking and swimming are popular ways for seniors to maintain mobility and manage stress.
- Relaxation Techniques. Deep breathing, mindfulness meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation help seniors release tension.
- Outdoor Activities. Nature walks, gardening, or simply sitting outside in the fresh air are great ways to alleviate stress in South Jordan.
To reduce daily stress, evaluate your living situation. It may be wise to consider buying a new, accessible home if you're apprehensive about continuing to live in your current property. Many South Jordan apartment complexes have elevators and security features, making them ideal for senior residents. Explore online listings to discover an accessible apartment that is within your budget.
The Little Things
Don't let stress ruin what could otherwise be the best years of your life. Developing stress management strategies and making lifestyle choices, like moving to a more accessible home, can help make these years the best of your life. For ways to simplify your daily life with little conveniences, visit Razbag.
By Lisa Walker
With great thanks to Lisa for her dedication and kindness.
Image via Pexels
