Anxiety can start at any age. Most individuals believe that it only affects the youth, but anxiety can even affect older adults. In fact, anxiety disorders in seniors are more common than many realize. Here, we will explain the manifestations of anxiety in later life. We also state the way we assist at Daybreak Telepsych.
What Is Anxiety?
Anxiety may be defined as tension, or uneasiness that stems from the anticipation of danger. It can increase heart beat and can affect sleep. It can make small things seem big. Anxiety is when your body and mind feel threatened.
Can Anxiety Start Later in Life?
Yes. The onset of anxiety in old age is a real experience. Other individuals who have not experienced anxiety earlier in life may subsequently develop it later on. Anxiety can start with new health problems, loss, or major life changes.
Common Signs of Anxiety in Older Adults
Look for simple signs. When identifying anxiety in older adults, these indicators may show that a person is anxious:
- Feeling worried most days.
- Trouble sleeping.
- Feeling unusually tired.
- Fast heart rate or breathing.
- Aches in the stomach or not being in the mood to eat.
- Difficulties with concentration or recalling information.
- One should avoid visiting places or people that feel frightening.
These signs may vary with the individual. In case you see some of these symptoms, you should request assistance.
Why Anxiety Can Start Later
There are many reasons anxiety may begin in older age:
- Health changes. Illness and pain can be scary. New medicines can also cause anxiety.
- Losing people. Grief from loss of a loved one can bring worry and sadness.
- Life changes. Moving, retiring, or losing a job can cause stress.
- Less social contact. Being alone can make elderly anxious.
- Past worries can return when life gets hard.
When to Seek Help
If worry stops a person from doing daily things, they should seek help. If sleep, eating, or safety are affected, see a professional. Getting help early makes a big difference.
How We Help Older Adults
At Daybreak Telepsych, we give kind care for all ages. We focus on children and adolescents, adult psychiatry and geriatric psychiatry. We offer mental health services in Washington to people who need them. Our goal is to support your mental health and well-being.
We talk with each person to learn their needs. We make a customized plan tailored according to the needs of the patient. This plan may include medicine, talk therapy, or simple steps to try at home. We listen with care and respect.
We help with:
- Prescribing medicine when it is needed.
- Tips for sleep, food and daily routine.
If you live in Washington, an online consultation can be arranged. Our aim is to make appointments easy.
Simple Steps to Feel Better Right Now
There are small steps anyone can try at home to help manage anxiety in older people:
- Sit calmly. Breathe in for four counts. Breathe out for four counts. Repeat a few times.
- Walk in the house or stretch for five minutes. Movement can calm the body.
- Having a schedule for going to bed and waking up can help. Turn off screens before bed.
- Call a friend or family member. Talking helps feelings feel lighter.
- Pick one small thing to do each day. It can help you feel more in control.
- Writing can help with anxiety. Writing about things you are grateful for can shift the mind.
These steps do not replace care from a doctor. But they can help while you get support.
What Family and Friends Can Do
If you care for an older adult, you can help them get support. Try these ideas:
- Listen without judging. Let them speak.
- Encourage them to see a doctor or mental health worker.
- Help set up a video visit or phone call.
- Join them for the first visit if they want company or are feeling anxious about going to the doctor
- Watch for changes in sleep, food, or daily tasks.
Your calm voice can make a person feel safer.
Getting Professional Help Is Okay
Many people worry that asking for help is a sign of weakness. It is not. Asking for help shows strength. It shows the person wants to feel better.
Our team knows how to work with older adults. We make plans that fit each person’s life. We help people in many stages — from kids to adults to older adults. Our focus is to help you stay well and to feel heard.
We are available to assist you in the state of Washington. Our mental health services will help you feel the relief that you are looking for. We listen. We care. We collaborate to discover the optimal way.
Daybreak Telepsych will be happy to help you or the person you love, who requires assistance.
