Anxiety in the Elderly: Understanding & Providing Support
Anxiety in the elderly is more common than many realise, and its signs can sometimes be misunderstood or dismissed. It may manifest as physical symptoms like restlessness or difficulty sleeping, or in more subtle ways like withdrawing from social activities or excessive worry.
Understanding the root causes and seeking timely support is key to improving the quality of life for older adults. When addressed with care and attention, anxiety can be managed, helping the elderly lead happier and more comfortable lives.
What causes anxiety in older adults?
There are several factors that contribute to anxiety in older age:
- Health-related issues: Chronic illnesses, pain or concerns about deteriorating health.
- Life transitions: Major changes like retirement, loss of a spouse or moving to a new home can trigger anxiety.
- Cognitive decline: Conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer’s can create feelings of confusion, leading to anxiety.
- Social isolation: Loneliness and lack of social engagement can contribute to emotional distress.
- Medication side effects: Some medications prescribed for other conditions can cause or exacerbate anxiety.
Does anxiety get worse with age?
As people age, they may encounter more challenging life experiences, such as losing loved ones, facing mobility issues or managing chronic health conditions. These changes, along with financial concerns and reduced social interactions, can increase anxiety levels. Genetics, past experiences and environmental factors also play a role in how anxiety develops. A lack of strong social support can further heighten feelings of worry and unease.
It’s important to note that ageing itself does not cause anxiety. While older adults may experience more life changes that can trigger anxious feelings, anxiety is not an inevitable part of getting older. Symptoms should always be explored, as they could indicate an underlying issue. Seeking professional support is key, as anxiety is treatable at any age, and early intervention can significantly improve quality of life.
Symptoms of anxiety in the elderly
Symptoms of anxiety in the elderly may look different than in younger individuals. Common signs include:
- Physical symptoms: Increased heart rate, sweating, dizziness or difficulty breathing.
- Behavioural changes: Restlessness, irritability or excessive worrying.
- Sleep disturbances: Trouble falling asleep, frequent waking during the night or poor-quality sleep.
- Social withdrawal: Avoiding social gatherings or expressing reluctance to leave home.
- Cognitive changes: Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness or confusion.
Keeping an eye out for these symptoms in your elderly loved ones can help address anxiety before it interferes with daily life.
Anxiety in the elderly at night
Many older adults experience heightened anxiety in the evening, often referred to as “sundowning.” This can lead to restlessness, confusion and difficulty sleeping. Factors such as changes in lighting, loneliness or disrupted sleep patterns can contribute to nighttime anxiety.
To help ease these symptoms, establish a calming bedtime routine, reduce stimulants like caffeine and create a comfortable sleep environment. Having a professional carer available—either through visiting or live-in care—can provide reassurance and support, helping to promote restful sleep and overall well-being.
In some cases, increased anxiety in the elderly at night may be an early sign of dementia, so it’s important to monitor symptoms and seek medical advice if concerns arise.
How do you treat anxiety in the elderly?
Anxiety can be challenging for older adults, but there are effective strategies to help manage and reduce it. Supporting your loved one with these approaches can help them regain control over their anxiety, leading to a better quality of life.
Here are some tips on supporting your loved ones with anxiety:
Encourage routine and structure
Establishing a predictable daily routine can greatly help older adults manage anxiety. Consistency in daily activities, such as set meal times, exercise and rest periods, can provide comfort and reduce feelings of uncertainty. Knowing what to expect each day brings a sense of security.
Including enjoyable activities in a daily routine can also help lift an older adult’s mood and reduce anxiety. Fun activities—whether it’s reading, art, gardening or a favourite hobby—encourage a sense of purpose and joy. Having something to look forward to each day enhances their overall well-being.
For more ideas on engaging activities, check out our guide here.
Promote social connections
Regular social interactions are crucial in reducing anxiety and preventing isolation. Encourage your loved one to stay connected with family, friends or join community groups. Feeling involved and valued can significantly improve emotional well-being and reduce anxious feelings.
Physical activity
Physical activity, such as a gentle walk or light exercise, can help reduce stress and anxiety in older adults. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters and help promote relaxation. It also supports overall health, improving both physical and mental well-being.
Remember that exercise doesn’t have to be vigorous to provide benefits. Even gentle exercise is enough to boost mood and reduce anxiety. Our guide on fitness for the elderly has lots of helpful tips to get you started.
Therapeutic options
Therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) or counselling can be valuable tools in managing anxiety. In addition, relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises, guided meditation or mindfulness practices can calm the mind and help manage stress levels.
Mindfulness meditation can greatly benefit older adults by promoting calm and reducing anxiety. It involves focusing on the present moment, which helps improve emotional regulation and sleep. To explore more about how mindfulness can enhance mental well-being, visit Age UK’s guide here.
Medication management
Consulting with a healthcare provider is key to exploring medication options if needed. The right medication, when prescribed correctly, can help manage anxiety in the elderly. But it’s important to always ensure that prescriptions are suitable for the individual’s health needs and any underlying conditions they may have.
When to seek professional help
If symptoms of anxiety in the elderly are persistent or become overwhelming, it’s important to seek professional assistance. A doctor or mental health specialist can offer an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatments. Depending on the severity of anxiety, medication, therapy or a combination of both might be necessary. Care professionals and trained caregivers can also help support emotional well-being by providing companionship and structure to daily life.
How Trinity Homecare can help
Trinity Homecare is a fully managed care agency with an ‘Outstanding’ CQC rating, placing Trinity amongst the top 4% of all nationwide care companies in England. With this in mind, you can rest assured that your loved one will receive the highest standard of care and specialist support.
Arranging home care with Trinity is straightforward. Simply follow these five steps:
- Call our care team
- Undergo a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your care needs and arrange a care assessment
- After the assessment, a plan of care is created
- A well suited carer is found and placed
- Care can be adapted at any time
