What Does Anxiety Look Like in the Elderly?

Ageing can be tough. The mind and body go through a lot of changes, and it can be hard to keep up. It's not uncommon for the elderly to experience anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what mental health looks like in the elderly and how anxiety plays its part.

We will delve into the risk factors that contribute to anxiety in seniors and the symptoms that come along with it. We will also touch on the importance of seeking help for seniors dealing with mental health issues and provide tips for caregivers on how to care for them.

Understanding anxiety in the elderly

Anxiety is a common mental health issue among the elderly population, and it can be caused by various factors such as health problems, social isolation, and significant life changes. Symptoms of anxiety in the elderly may manifest physically, emotionally or behaviourally.

It's important to differentiate normal ageing anxiety from more severe anxiety disorders that require treatment. Caregivers should be mindful of identifying signs of anxiety and providing appropriate support to maintain good mental health in their loved ones.

What is anxiety and its types?

As we age, it's common to experience feelings of anxiety in response to stress. Anxiety can be a normal response to life changes, but it can also become a problem if it affects our daily lives. Generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and phobias are common types of anxiety in the elderly.

Symptoms may include restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and physical symptoms such as sweating or trembling. Seeking professional help is important if anxiety is interfering with daily life or causing distress. Treatment options may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Symptoms of anxiety in the elderly

Symptoms of anxiety in older adults may include:

• Increased worry and fear about everyday activities.
• Restlessness and difficulty sleeping.
• Physical symptoms such as sweating and heart palpitations.
• Avoidance of social situations or activities they once enjoyed.
• Changes in appetite or weight loss.
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
• Feelings of panic or impending doom.
• Increased dependence on medication or alcohol to cope with anxiety.

It's important to recognise these symptoms and seek help if you or a loved one is experiencing anxiety.

Prevalence of anxiety in the elderly

Anxiety is a prevalent mental health concern affecting up to 27% of elderly men and up to 40% of elderly women. It can be caused by various factors such as medical conditions, medication side effects, and life changes like retirement or loss of a loved one. Symptoms may include restlessness, sleep disturbances, and physical discomfort. Seeking professional help is essential when anxiety interferes with daily life or causes distress.

Risk factors for anxiety in the elderly

Physical health problems like chronic pain or illness are one significant factor that can contribute to anxiety in the elderly. Senior citizens experiencing social isolation and loneliness may also be at higher risk of developing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, cognitive decline or dementia may exacerbate anxiety symptoms in older individuals.

Medical conditions and medications

Conditions such as heart disease, chronic pain, and respiratory disorders are just a few examples that may increase the risk of anxiety in older adults. Furthermore, certain medications commonly prescribed to seniors, such as benzodiazepines and corticosteroids, can also contribute to anxiety symptoms.

Healthcare providers need to consider all potential risks when prescribing medications for seniors with an anxiety disorder. In some cases, non-pharmacological interventions may be a safer option to manage anxiety in elderly patients with underlying medical conditions.

Life changes and losses

Reaching old age is often accompanied by significant life changes and losses that can lead to anxiety. Retirement, bereavement, and declining health are only a few of the many challenges that elderly individuals face. These events can cause stress, sadness, and worry, which can be difficult to manage. Older adults may also struggle with feelings of isolation or loneliness, particularly if they live alone or have recently lost a loved one.

Anxiety vs normal ageing signs

It's important to differentiate between anxiety symptoms and normal ageing signs in the elderly. While forgetfulness or mild physical decline may be expected with age, excessive worry, restlessness, and physical symptoms such as sweating and trembling should raise concern. It's essential to pay attention to changes in behaviour or mood that are out of the ordinary for the individual.

Connection between depression and anxiety

Depression and anxiety often coexist in the elderly population, with many individuals experiencing symptoms of both. The connection between the two conditions is strong, as depression can lead to feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and a loss of interest in activities.

Anxiety can cause excessive worry and fear about everyday situations, leading to physical symptoms such as sweating or shaking. Seeking professional help is important if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of depression and/or anxiety in order to receive proper treatment and improve overall mental health.

The importance of seeking help for anxiety in the elderly

Anxiety can have a significant impact on an older adult's quality of life. Seeking professional help is crucial for effective treatment and management. Therapy, medication, or a combination of both can be recommended by healthcare professionals.

Family members and caregivers can also play an important role in supporting elderly individuals with anxiety. By seeking help, elderly individuals can gain access to the resources they need to improve their overall mental health and wellbeing.

Treatment options for anxiety in the elderly

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can be a highly effective treatment option for anxiety in the elderly. Studies have shown that CBT can improve symptoms of anxiety in older adults and lead to a better overall quality of life. Another treatment option is medication such as anti-anxiety drugs. However, it's important to note that medication should always be prescribed and monitored by a healthcare professional.

Therapy options

Therapy can be an effective treatment option for anxiety in the elderly.

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a commonly used therapy that helps change negative thoughts and behaviours.
• Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) can improve communication skills and reduce loneliness and isolation in seniors.
• Group therapy sessions provide a supportive environment where seniors can share experiences and learn coping skills from others.

Medicine options

A healthcare professional may prescribe medications such as benzodiazepines, SSRIs, or beta-blockers to treat anxiety in the elderly.

• Benzodiazepines are highly effective but can be addictive and cause drowsiness and confusion.
• SSRIs have fewer side effects but take longer to work.
• Beta-blockers can reduce physical symptoms of anxiety but do not address the underlying psychological causes.

It is crucial to work with a healthcare provider to determine the best medication option for an elderly person with anxiety to minimise adverse effects while maximising benefits.

Caring for elderly people with anxiety

Taking care of elderly individuals with anxiety can be challenging, but there are ways to make the experience smoother for both the caregiver and the care recipient. One essential step is to create a calm and supportive environment that fosters emotional stability. Encouraging regular exercise, social activities, and hobbies can also help reduce anxiety levels in the elderly.

Caregivers need to listen actively to their concerns, provide reassurance and emotional support while regularly checking on their mental well-being. Seeking professional help from a healthcare provider is crucial if anxiety persists or worsens despite these measures.

Resources for support

Accessing resources for support is important when caring for elderly individuals with anxiety. Fortunately, there are many options available to both the caregiver and the elderly person. Seeking guidance from professionals such as therapists and geriatric psychiatrists can provide specialised treatment and support.

Additionally, joining support groups for caregivers can offer comfort and shared experiences, while educational websites and forums can provide helpful information on caring for elderly individuals with anxiety. Open communication between the caregiver and the elderly person about their feelings is also essential in managing anxiety symptoms.

Use a SureSafe alarm to help with anxiety concerns

Mental health issues are not just limited to the young, and it is essential to recognise the signs of anxiety in the elderly. Anxiety can have a severe impact on an individual's life, and it is vital to seek help when needed. A SureSafe personal alarm is a great help for elderly people suffering with anxiety. Our alarms have an SOS button and a fall detection sensor, so a person doesn’t need to feel anxious about completing errands or living on their own.

If someone you know is struggling with anxiety in their later years and think they will benefit from using a personal alarm, don’t hesitate to call a member of our friendly team on 0800 112 3201. You can also use our live chat or request a call back.