Coping with Anxiety: How to Help Seniors Fight Depression

“Anxiety is the most silently painful experience. It makes no sense and you sit alone and suffer for an unknown reason. You can’t explain it. You can’t stop it. It is horrible.”
— Maleen Katharina

There’s nothing more depressing than seeing your aging parents feel lonely and isolated. Generally, depression among the elderly is common, but it does not mean it’s normal. There are a lot of reasons why they suffer from anxiety.

This could be due to:

• Disabilities
• Recent loss of a loved one
• Fear of death
• Family problems
• Financial problems
• And more

However, you can do so much more in helping them fight depression. Here’s how:

• Seek professional help.
  Professionals are expert when it comes to addressing anxiety issues. They know what aspect of a senior’s life that needs to be addressed.
• Encourage social interaction.
  Don’t let seniors feel that they are unwanted. Let them engage in various social activities that could help boost their confidence and self-esteem. This will prevent them from feeling lonely and isolated.
• Keep them physically active.
  Studies have shown that seniors who engage in physical activities have a happier and healthier life. This is because they feel energized and motivated, which results in regaining their sense of purpose in life.
• Show them they are loved.
  Seniors get courage from their family and friends. Show them how you really care and loved them even in simple ways as possible.
• Make sure they eat healthily.
  Choose the right food with the right amount of nutrients to ensure seniors will achieve the overall wellness in life.

Depression among the elderly can be prevented when you’re dedicated to helping them fight against it!