The last several years have been trying for all of us, but many senior citizens were under exceptional stress. In addition to worrying about their health, they experienced loneliness and isolation in ways no one could have predicted. Stress and anxiety are difficult to cope with on their own, but they can also significantly aggravate other health conditions and diseases. Even now that the health crisis is largely in the past, chronic stress remains an issue for many seniors. It is imperative that the elderly have assistance in relieving this stress in order to stay as healthy as possible.

Our bodies have learned instinctually to react to fearful or threatening situations with several nerve and hormonal signals that protect us. At the base of the brain is the hypothalamus, a gland that alerts the body to possible danger and directs the adrenal glands to release the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. While designed to help us survive, any stressful incident can trigger this adrenal response. When adrenaline travels through the system, it raises both heart rate and blood pressure – which can be devastating for seniors with heart or blood pressure issues. Cortisol, which is the most common stress hormone, can affect immune system response, adversely affect the digestive system, and addle brain signals which manage fear. In a “fight or flight” scenario, all of the body’s responses will ease once the situation is over – the blood pressure, sugars, and heart rate return to normal.

However, when a senior adult lives with constant stress, the body exists in an ongoing state of hyper-alertness, and the body’s responses can become chronic. Stress may be the result of confusion, fear, loneliness, or isolation. While these emotions are often seen in residents of adult living and memory care facilities, they become even more prevalent over the last several years.

Important Fact While some people’s normal persona may be good-natured and easygoing, others are thrown off by any change to their routine. Understanding someone’s normal personality can provide a good sense of how well they are handling the stress of any turmoil and uncertainty they have experienced. People with dementia are the most susceptible to stress brought on by unexpected situations and a shift in their normal routine.

When the stress triggers are never turned off, a senior may develop anxiety or depression, problems with digestion, sleep interruptions, weight gain, cognitive impairment, heart disease, or migraines.

Some beneficial ways to manage stress and combat chronic disease include:

Sleep: Planning for adequate sleep and maintaining a sleep schedule is paramount for relieving stress and gaining serenity.
Nutrition: Eating a nutritious, healthy diet can help to reduce inflammation and provide the vitamins and minerals needed to combat disease.
Exercise: Daily exercise is good for heart health, joints, overall well-being, and mood.
Sunshine: Spending time safely outside in the sunshine can provide vitamin D and help to boost the immune system.
Serenity: Cultivating a mindful sense of calm through employing yoga, massage, or meditation can effectively combat stress.
Engagement: Taking up enjoyable pastimes and hobbies, such as playing or listening to music or taking a dance class, will relieve tension.
Relationship: Establishing and maintaining new friendships provides a sense of belonging and lowers stress levels.
Assistance: Consulting with professional mental health counselors if necessary, will prevent chronic stress from reaching a critical level.