Stress in the senior years can come from many different sources, but it’s important to identify those causes to help your senior loved one manage them because too much stress can result in more serious conditions. Here are some of the common causes of elderly stress and tips to help your loved one prevent or alleviate it.
Moving Out of the Home
Seniors are attached to their homes, and moving away often leads to stress and depression. Each item in the home could have some type of sentimental value, which is why your loved one should keep as many items as he or she can store safely if downsizing to live in a smaller space. Another option is to allow your loved one to age in place, provided his or her doctor does not object. You can also consider hiring a live-in caregiver in Tucson so your loved one does not have to move into unfamiliar surroundings.
Experiencing the Loss of a Spouse
This is likely one of the greatest losses your loved one will ever experience. Losing a spouse could result in the loss of security and companionship. Your loved one may feel the person who held the family together is gone, causing stress over what life might be like without this person. It is important for you, other family members, and your loved one’s friends to spend as much time with your loved one as possible. While this will not replace time spent with his or her spouse, it can help ease some of the stress and loneliness your loved one is feeling.
Managing a Chronic Illness
After being diagnosed with a chronic illness, your loved one may begin to worry more. If doctors have placed a time frame on your loved one’s life due to the illness, this could lead to serious stress. To alleviate this stress, help your loved one get all of his or her personal and business affairs in order. Knowing finances, wills, and other important issues are handled could alleviate some stress. You can also help your loved one make the most of his or her time by doing fun things and making new memories. Scrapbooking, watching old home videos, and family gatherings are some great activities that could help take his or her mind off of the chronic illness.
Losing Independence
When seniors need to rely on their families because the ability to handle their own business and perform daily duties has decreased, they may become stressed because they feel they are losing their independence. To prevent this, you can find ways to let your loved one maintain some control over his or her life. For example, cooking, bathing, and dressing independently can give your loved one a sense of control and alleviate stress. When making decisions about health, finances, and elderly care in Tucson, include your loved one in the process.
Help your loved one remain as independent as possible while managing his or her ailments by hiring a professional caregiver. At Home Care Assistance, our caregivers can provide emotional support and assist with daily tasks like meal prep, grooming, and bathing. We also offer specialized Parkinson’s, stroke, and Alzheimer’s care Tucson families can rely on. For more information, call one of our friendly Care Managers at (520) 276-6555 today.