Common misconceptions about retirement make it easy to overlook the fact that seniors can feel a great deal of stress. Stress can be especially overwhelming for seniors, as it can exacerbate health problems and make it difficult to adapt to new living arrangements. While some sources of stress are easy to identify, many caregivers may not realize the causes of their aging loved ones’ anxiety.
Loss of Purpose
Most seniors have lived their entire lives working and contributing to society. While some relish retirement and the chance to just do nothing, others face difficulty with changes to their identities and lifestyles, particularly those who define themselves by what they can contribute.
Loss of a Pet
Many people fail to recognize the stress an elderly person can experience after the loss of a pet that provided unwavering companionship. In fact, research has found having a pet reduces stress and blood pressure in elderly people.
Loss of Memory
Seniors with memory problems experience a great deal of anxiety as it becomes more and more difficult to recognize loved ones and recall events. Finding it difficult to remember the names of common objects or place a face can be far more than frustrating. It can also cause a great deal of stress and fear.
Certain age-related conditions can make it more challenging for seniors to age in place safely and comfortably, but Anchorage live-in care experts are available around the clock to help seniors manage their health. Whether your loved one is living with dementia or recovering from a stroke, you can trust the professional live-in caregivers from Home Care Assistance to enhance his or her quality of life.
Loss of Strength & Coordination
Not being able to perform daily tasks that were once easy can be a source of great stress for aging adults. Many seniors have difficulty adjusting to their bodies’ new limitations and feel stressed and scared about what the future holds for them.
Changes in physical health often lead to stress, which can negatively impact a senior’s overall wellbeing. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them obtain this goal. Families can trust home care service experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living a longer and healthier life.
Caring for an Aging Spouse
Many seniors don’t get to enjoy the easy and carefree retirement they imagined with their spouses. Instead, many care for aging spouses while facing their own decreasing health. One study found that seniors who are stressed while taking care of disabled spouses face higher mortality rates than caregivers who aren’t stressed.
Distance from Family Members
It’s not uncommon for seniors to begin to distance themselves for any number of reasons, including depression, memory problems, and communication difficulties. Seniors who live far away from family members are more likely to experience stress and loneliness as well as a sense of abandonment.
If you’re concerned about your loved one experiencing stress, one of the best things you can do to alleviate his or her anxiety is provide support and encouragement. When researching agencies that provide at-home care, Anchorage, Alaska, families are usually looking for flexible care plans, compassionate and highly trained caregivers, and 24/7 availability. Whether you need respite care to take a break from your caregiving duties or your senior loved one needs around-the-clock assistance at home, you can rely on Home Care Assistance. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today at (907) 770-0907 to learn more about our high-quality home care services.