How to deal with stress is essential for seniors, especially as they may be affected by personal, physical, economic, and other events and issues. One out of five people age 55 or older experience some type of mental health concern, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

The CDC says the most common mental health conditions include anxiety, severe cognitive impairment, and mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder. In severe cases, mental health issues can contribute to suicide in seniors, the CDC reports.

The Importance of Support

Social support is a key contributor to mental health in seniors. Social support helps through:

  • Emotional support, such as sharing problems or venting emotions
  • Informational support, such as advice and guidance
  • Instrumental support, such as providing rides or helping with housekeeping

Good social and emotional support in seniors helps reduce the risk of mental illness, physical illness, and death. Nearly 90% of adults age 50 or older indicated they receive adequate amounts of support. But adults age 65 or older were more likely than adults age 50-64 to report that they “rarely” or “never” received the social and emotional support they needed.

For Hispanics, about 20% of them as well as other non-Hispanic adults age 65 or older said they did not receive the support they need. This compares to about 10% of older white adults.

For older men, they report they are more likely than women to “rarely” or “never” receive the support they need.

Tips for Dealing with Stress

There are several helpful, easy ways to help seniors deal with stress. From prayer, to making connections, to mindfulness, there are many options to reducing stress and helping put your mind at ease.

Here are several:

  • Go for a walk and enjoy nature. This is especially timely during spring, after a sweet-smelling rain, or as flowers and trees bloom, and the weather warms.
  • Listen to relaxing music or sounds. Instrumental music, or the sound of gentle waves, a mountain stream, or even rain are noted for their calming effects.
  • Pray or meditate. Find a quiet place in a comfortable position to help you find peace.
  • Be aware of your breathing. Practice deep, controlled breathing to help slow your heart, lower your blood pressure and calm your senses.
  • Turn off your television, step away from your computer, and put down your phone. Take some time to enjoy your surroundings and escape the busyness of the world.

A CARING-FIRST ENVIRONMENT

Senior living communities like Regency at Augusta Assisted Living & Memory Care are precisely that—a community. Residents become friends and even family, and a caring team is there to help them maintain their quality of life. 

At Regency at Augusta, we offer both Assisted Living and Memory Care and we care with Honesty, Excellence, Accountability, Residents first and Teamwork. We like to call it Caring with H.E.A.R.T.™!

If you believe a senior living community would benefit your loved one, get in touch with us. Schedule a visit or download a brochure today!