Is your elderly parent having a hard time sleeping and has not appetite? Do they cry a lot or experience dramatic mood swings? Have they complained about frequent headaches and stomachaches? Do they avoid social gatherings and complain all the time? You might think they are just being grouchy, but all these symptoms indicate chronic stress. It may be time for you to take a good look at what might be causing stress for your aging mom or dad and take steps to help them manage it better.
Stress and Your Elderly Parent
You probably think that your aging mom or dad doesn’t have anything to stress about, due to retirement and a more leisurely lifestyle. However, elderly people can be faced with numerous triggers that lead to chronic stress. Among the most common are losing loved ones, feeling lonely, fear of the future, poor health, chronic pain, contemplating mortality and worry about their independence. Living with chronic stress isn’t good for your elderly parent’s mind or body.
Stress affects the brain and the body by releasing hormones when the brain feels overwhelmed or afraid. This makes all kinds of physical reactions, from rapid heartbeat to higher blood pressure. Over time, the long-term exposure to stress takes its toll on various organs. The result is an array of health problems like high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, memory loss, anxiety and depression. Of course, you don’t want your elderly mom or dad to suffer with chronic stress, so what can you do about it?
Solutions for Chronic Stress for Your Elderly Parent
Your aging parent needs help in identifying the triggers for their stress. Once you figure out what is causing the stress, you can work together to find solutions to manage it. The first step is building a strong support network of friends, family, clergy, doctors and more. Everyone can contribute to your aging mom or dad’s well-being.
Another powerful stress reducer is hiring an in-home care provider. Having a professional on hand to take care of housework, laundry and meals can help seniors feel more rested and less worried. They’ll also get nutritious meals, reminders about medication, and companionship when they have a home care provider. Also, the home care provider can monitor your aging parent’s physical and mental health and notify you of anything that is concerning them.
Chronic stress is a serious health problem that is often overlooked in the elderly. Don’t make the mistake of thinking your elderly parent is just grouchy or stubborn. They could be displaying signs and symptoms of high stress. You’ll need to gather all the resources you can to step in and eliminate as much stress as you can from their lives. After all, their health and wellness depend on it.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING CAREGIVERS IN SUMMERLIN, NV, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE. CALL TODAY 702-800-4616.