The golden years tend to result in an increased risk of physical health conditions, but this isn’t the only issue seniors face. There’s also a potential risk of emotional health issues because seniors are going through a lot of life changes, illnesses, and other issues that can be difficult to process. It’s important to be aware of these emotional issues so you can help your elderly loved one prevent them. Here are some of the most common emotional health issues among seniors.
1. Anxiety
Seniors often experience anxiety because there are so many problems beyond their control. It’s normal to feel a little anxious over things like a new health diagnosis or exercise program, but if the anxiety becomes so severe that it prevents your loved one from doing things, you may need to talk to his or her doctor. Medication and therapy can be very effective for treating anxiety disorders.
Living with serious health conditions can make it challenging for seniors to age in place. However, they can maintain a higher quality of life with the help of professional live-in care. Fair Oaks seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more.
2. Addiction
Addiction has both emotional and physical components, and overcoming the emotional factor can be very challenging. Seniors may turn to alcohol or other substances in an attempt to handle loneliness or depression.
3. Lack of Purpose
Seniors who feel aimless may have difficulty finding a sense of meaning and direction. Many seniors experience this problem after retiring, having family members move away, or losing the ability to live independently. Work with your loved one to find community work or other things that may boost his or her motivation.
4. Stress
Severe stress is a particularly damaging emotional issue because it can lead to serious mental and physical health issues. Handling stress requires seniors to become aware of their triggers and avoid situations that may cause stress. It can also be helpful to learn meditation and other techniques to keep stress down.
Aging leads to many emotional as well as physical changes, which is why seniors need a little extra help throughout the day to manage stress. Senior care providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Home Care Assistance are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
5. Decreased Confidence
When health issues make it challenging for seniors to do things they used to do, it’s no surprise they begin to lose confidence. Try to combat this emotional health issue by thinking of ways to increase your loved one’s sense of independence and self-worth.
6. Isolation
Seniors may feel isolated when they don’t have much social interaction with friends, family members, and partners. Try to make time to facilitate social situations for your loved one. Drive your loved one to visit old friends, or sign him or her up for a book club or senior program to meet new friends.
7. Depression
Feeling distressed, sad, lost, or hopeless can lead to depression, which is the greatest emotional health issue seniors face. You can decrease depression risks by encouraging your loved one to get plenty of exercise, spend time outdoors, socialize with friends, and develop hobbies.
Companionship provided by home caregivers can be beneficial for seniors by boosting their emotional health and making it easier to participate in their daily routines. Seniors who want to remain healthy as they age can benefit in a variety of ways when they receive professional elderly home care. Fair Oaks, CA, Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one accomplish daily tasks, prevent illness, and focus on living a healthier and more fulfilling life. To hire a compassionate, dedicated caregiver, call us at (916) 485-4663 today.