4 Steps to Help Fresno, CA Older Adults Manage Their Anxiety with Senior Care
The Geriatric Mental Health Foundation reports that as many as 10 to 20 percent of older adults suffer from anxiety. The foundation describes anxiety as “feelings of fear, worry, apprehension, or dread that are excessive or disproportional to the problems or situations that are feared.” It’s important to remember that anxiety is not a normal part of aging and could be a sign of a serious health issue.
Below are a few tips for family caregivers to help their loved ones better manage their anxiety and improve their quality of life.
1. Recognize the Signs and Symptoms
There are many anxiety disorders and each has its own particular signs to watch out for. Below are a few of the most common:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): symptoms include headaches, fatigue, muscle tension, difficulty concentrating, or nausea. GAD is characterized by chronic, exaggerated worry about everyday activities that last for six months or more.
- Panic disorder: symptoms include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, or dizziness. Panic disorder is characterized by panic attacks.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): symptoms include recurrent, unwanted thoughts, and uncontrollable behaviors. For example, those who suffer from OCD may perform “rituals” such as washing their hands.
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): symptoms include nightmares, flashbacks, depression, irritability, or distractions. A traumatic life event can trigger PTSD.
- Phobia: Phobias are extreme, disabling, and often irrational fears. Some of the most common fears include acrophobia (fear of heights) and claustrophobia (fear of closed spaces).
2. Educate Yourself About Anxiety Diagnosis and Treatment
It can be more difficult to diagnose anxiety in seniors than it is with other age groups. For example, anxiety’s physical symptoms may be misdiagnosed for other illnesses. If you see your loved one exhibit signs of anxiety, make an appointment with their primary care provider. Options such as medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy are available for treatment.
3. Learn About Anxiety’s Effect on Physical and Mental Health
Research has shown that anxiety can occur concurrently with other physical and mental issues. For example, anxiety can increase the risk of physical disability, memory problems, and death. Anxiety can also occur alongside other mental health conditions including depression and bipolar disorder.
4. Provide Support During Your Loved One’s Anxiety Treatment
To support your loved one, lend a listening ear or a helping hand to a loved one in need. For times when you can’t be there, Visiting Angels of Fresno recommends that you hire a qualified, professional senior caregiver.
At Visiting Angels, we provide senior care that caters to our local clients’ unique needs. Whether your loved one’s anxiety stems from loneliness or dementia, we can provide specialized care. Partnering with a senior care facility, like Visiting Angels of Fresno, can support your loved one’s wellness even when you can’t physically be there.
Call Visiting Angels of Fresno at 559-550-6573 to learn more about our senior care and how we can help your loved one feel safe and comfortable in their own home.