Stress Management for Seniors

Stress touches all of us at most every phase of our lives. Because stress is the body's response to a new or challenging situation, stress itself is not inherently negative, as it can motivate us and give us courage to tackle a new problem or situation. However, when we experience long term stress, known as chronic stress, it can have negative impacts on our mental and even physical wellbeing. Through this blog post we will explore signs and symptoms of stress and techniques for managing stress tailored to aging adults.

Common Symptoms of Stress:

• Tension headaches

• Back pain

• Indigestion

• Anxiety

• Heart palpitations

• Poor concentration

• Nightmares or problems sleeping

If you or someone you know is experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it may be an indicator of stress. Don't wait to address stress in your life, as chronic stress can negatively impact your mental and physical health. According to Health.Harvard.edu, prolonged stress can increase your blood sugar and worsen diabetes. It can also create high blood pressure, cause insomnia, and have negative impacts on your mental health by increasing your risk for depression.

Common Stress Management Techniques:

• Identify your stressor

  • Identify the situation causing stress and create a plan to address the situation.

• Take breaks from social media and the news.

• Make time to dedicate to relaxing hobbies such as reading.

• Spend time outdoors.

• Keep a journal.

• Practice gratitude every day.

• Connect with others.

  • Talk with trusted people in your life about your concerns and how you are feeling.

  • Join a group through your church or the local senior center.

• Prioritize sleep.

• Increase your physical activity.

  • Start small with a goal to get 2 1/2 hours of exercise per week.

  • You can find low impact and beginner workout videos online. Or join a class at a senior center or gym near you!

• Try to eat a balanced diet.

• Limit your alcohol intake.

Start small. You don't have to incorporate all of these techniques at once, try adding one new stress management technique to your daily routine for one month then assess your stress levels.

Final Thoughts

Though stress is an unavoidable facet of life, there are small steps you can take today to begin managing your stress. Chronic stress can have lasting negative impacts from high blood sugar to insomnia, but incorporating daily stress management techniques such as connection with others or keeping a journal can help you to keep stress and it's negative health consequences at bay.

If you are interested in home care as part of your plan to combat stress for you or a loved one call Total at 219-937-2811.