How to Best Manage Stress and Anxiety as You Age

Posted by Scott Cantin in mental health, Senior Health | 0 comments

Aging brings about a slew of changes, from changes in routine to fluctuations in physical health. These changes can be a lot to manage, and for many senior adults, they can cause stress and even anxiety. While some stress is normal, it can easily get out of control, causing issues with your mental and physical health. However, there are ways to manage your stress before it turns into full-blown anxiety. These tips from Advancare will equip you to reduce stress and anxiety as you age in healthy, sustainable ways.

See your doctor regularly

The best way to stay on top of your health and wellness as you age is to maintain your regular check-ups with your doctor and other healthcare providers. Not only can your doctor ensure that your blood sugar, blood pressure, and other important hallmarks of overall health look good, but they can talk to you about any new symptoms or concerns that you might be having.

If you see a therapist for any mental health concerns, keep those appointments even as you age. While mental health is important at every age, people experience life changes as they age that can cause them to experience depression and anxiety. If this is something you have struggled with or are currently struggling with, you don’t have to go it alone. Your doctor, along with experts such as caregiver services in Miami, are all available to help you move forward.

Stay active

Exercise is a fantastic way to stay healthy and happy. Physical fitness is necessary to maintain strength, but it also has some significant mental health benefits. Research has shown that moving your body decreases muscle tension, lowering the body’s contribution to feeling anxious. There are a lot of options for exercise, from low-impact weightlifting to cardio on an elliptical or treadmill.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that adults age 65 and older need at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity, such as walking, or 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity like hiking, running, or jogging. Whatever exercise you choose, make sure it’s something you enjoy enough to sustain. Also, make sure to consult with your doctor before you start any sort of new workout regimen. They can advise you on how to stay safe during your workouts.

Stay in touch with friends and family

Aging can be isolating, especially if you move to a new city or state. It’s easy to lose touch with family and friends in the wake of all these busy life changes. Take care to retain your connections with those you love, as being involved with loved ones can naturally reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. It’s a good idea to establish regular times to talk, such as weekly phone calls or bi-weekly video chats.

Get out when you can and enjoy social gatherings if you can do so safely. Coffee dates with friends or low-key lunch meetings with others in your social circle can also help with anxiety and feelings of stress. Volunteering is another great way to provide a sense of purpose and community. It can help you meet new friends as well.

Contact Advancare for caregiver services in Miami, FL

Stress and anxiety don’t have to be a normal part of aging. With some proactive steps and some positive lifestyle changes, you can discover a path to your healthiest and happiest self yet. At Advancare, we are passionate about the care and well-being of seniors. Through in-home care services in Miami, we can support you or your loved one through compassionate, personalized care. Contact us today to learn more about senior care in Miami and how Advancare can help!