Ways Seniors Can Deal With Common Stressors

 

As an older adult, you may have to deal with a number of changes in your life that can amp up your stress level. While you can’t necessarily change your circumstances, you can learn how to handle these stressors so they don’t expand into larger problems. Having effective coping strategies is important for maintaining your well-being.

 

Finance-Related Stressors

 

Whether retirement is on the horizon or you’ve already retired, changes in your financial status can be a large source of stress in your life. As a matter of fact, CNBC reports that more seniors are working after retirement because they can’t afford to retire. This may be owing to insufficient savings, the lack of a reasonable income stream or unforeseen expenses. If your financial worries have been weighing heavily on you and you’ve endured frequent headaches or trouble sleeping, chances are high that you are feeling stressed. In order to cope with it, you should develop a workable plan to deal with your financial situation. Having a plan in place can make it easier for you to see the way forward and reduce feelings of anxiety. Don’t forget to eat well and get some regular exercise.

 

Your financial worries may go beyond your own finances. With the average funeral costing $9,000, many seniors are concerned about future burial expenses and how their family can afford them. It may not be easy to think about, but by planning and paying for your funeral ahead of time, you can eliminate this stress for both you and your family.

 

Health-Related Stressors

 

Older adults are often prone to certain chronic illnesses, and according to Everyday Health, these can include osteoporosis, heart disease, and respiratory diseases. Since stress can actually have a negative impact on your health, it’s important to know how to keep it under control. It’s suggested that you follow your physician’s advice in the management of your illness. If you have any concerns, don’t keep them to yourself. Even if your treatment plan doesn’t call for exercise, you should definitely make the effort to add it to your schedule. If your partner is the one with the illness, then you’ll find yourself in the delicate position of supporting them while managing your own stress. To do this, it helps to know everything you can about the illness and make sure you talk to the healthcare professionals together so you both know what’s happening.

 

Relocation Stressors

 

According to West Coast Moving, seniors may need to relocate in order to be closer to relatives or job opportunities. You may also need to downsize to a smaller home if you’re aging in place or move to a senior housing facility, depending on your needs. Whatever the reason, you may experience feelings of depression or anxiety when it comes to leaving your home behind. To get through those feelings, it’s important for you to realize that it’s completely normal to treat the move as a loss. It’s best for you to keep connected with your social circle so they can lend their support. If you start to engage with your new community before the move, it can make the transition easier as well. The process of moving can be stressful, so get all the help you need.

 

Get the Right Assistance

 

Sometimes what you’re feeling runs deeper than stress, and it’s vital that you recognize when you may be dealing with anxiety or depression. In seniors, anxiety can come with excessive fear and a racing heart, among other things. On the other hand, depression may manifest with feelings of despair and a loss of interest in previously fun activities. If you suspect this may be happening to you, then it’s best to contact a mental health professional so they can help you. Many Medicare recipients are all eligible for mental health screenings through Medicare Part B, which covers mental health services like counseling and annual depression screenings from your primary physician. Check your coverage to find out what services you can take advantage of to get the help you need.

 

 

While seniors can face challenges that can increase their stress levels, implementing the right coping mechanisms can help you keep things under control. Bear in mind though, that if you’re trying to cope with things on your own and it’s not helping, it might be time to call in the professionals.

 

Photo courtesy of Pexels

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Article provided by:

Kent Elliott

Athomeaging.info

info@athomeaging.info