While stress is a part of life, the challenges seniors face as they age can be somewhat unique. Thankfully, by learning about typical struggles and how to address them, it’s possible to reduce the impact of many concerns. Here’s a look at common stressors seniors face as they age and how to manage them.
Money
Financial instability is a top concern among aging Americans, causing more mental strife than the prospect of dying or the loss of a spouse. Money worries can have a significant impact on a person’s life. Often, these kinds of woes cloud daily living, leading to long-term health concerns, including mental health struggles.
Up to 20 percent of older adults may suffer from anxiety, though it’s often undiagnosed. Additionally, over 2 million Americans over the age of 64 have some form of depression. While those aren’t all related to money worries, financial instability can certainly worsen those conditions.
Often, the best way to overcome financial instability is planning. Creating a budget, finding opportunities to save, setting more money aside for retirement, and taking similar actions can make a difference.
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Health Conditions
Approximately 80 percent of older adults have at least one chronic medical condition. Additionally, 50 percent have two or more chronic health conditions.
A chronic health condition impacts daily life in a number of ways. Along with potentially being a source of fear and anxiety, some medical issues may limit mobility or require those with it to restrict their activities. For example, they might have to follow strict diets, avoid becoming overly excited, or stay near bathrooms at all times.
There are strategies for coping with a chronic health condition. For example, medication adherence, learning more about the condition, and taking ownership of your care can help. Additionally, building a support system and reaching out for help when it’s needed can make a difference.
Access to Healthcare
In a similar vein, securing reliable access to healthcare can be a concern for aging adults. Having insurance coverage that makes treatment affordable isn’t as easy once you stop working, which is stressful for many people.
Signing up for Medicare Advantage could be an excellent option for Medicare beneficiaries to ensure they have the healthcare access they need to feel confident moving forward. Medicare Advantage has additional benefits for vision, dental, and prescriptions.
A Lack of Companionship
For many seniors, isolation is a significant concern. The loss of a spouse or the death of friends can be hard to shoulder, having a substantial impact on the social aspects of their life. Additionally, family members may not be readily available. Even if they live nearby, they may be struggling with work-life balance, leaving little time for visiting other family members.
Depending on where a person lives, there may be some reasonable ways to find new companions. For example, community senior centers can be an asset. Some community colleges have lifelong learner programs, allowing older adults to take enrichment classes at little or no cost.
Additionally, connecting with family members online could help. With video calls, everyone can catch up face-to-face. As a result, it can help seniors feel less isolated even if everyone can’t gather in person.
Seniors battle stress as they get older, but they don’t have to go it alone. The resources above can reduce those stressors and help them find joy and peace of mind once again.
This guest article was written by Jim Vogel who can be contacted at jim@elderaction.org
