Ways to Help Anxiety in Aging Parents in Plano, Texas

Anxiety can strike anyone and at any stage in life, but it is particularly prevalent in elderly people. Not only do physiological changes play a part in creating anxiety, but loss of social interaction, mobility, and independence can all contribute. As an adult child of aging parents in Plano, Texas, it can be particularly off-putting to see anxiety in aging parents, those once capable and stable caregivers. Plano Christian Counseling offers compassionate support and faith-based guidance to help families navigate these challenges.

Ways to Support Aging Parents Dealing with Anxiety

Here are a few strategies and tactics to try when your aging parents are dealing with anxiety in Plano, Texas:

Talk with their doctor Anxiety in aging parents can be triggered by many factors so it’s important to rule out any medical reasons for the sudden change. It may even be a side-effect of a prescription drug. Be sure to mention the anxiety to their primary care physician and ask for any advice for their specific situation.

Find a comfort item A comfort item is any tangible physical thing that brings them comfort. For some, it could be a soft or weighted blanket or stuffed animal. For others, it might be a photograph of a loved one. Experiment with different items that you think could bring them comfort and have an ample supply on hand.

Keep their hands busy If your aged parent can use their hands, consider investing in a fidget toy or two. Fidget spinners, squishies, and other hand-held toys can help keep anxious hands busy and give their eyes and minds something to focus on other than what they are worried about.

Hug Hugging can reduce blood pressure and bring a sense of peace to both parties. Be sure to gently and lovingly physically touch your aging parents regularly. A simple hug can help them feel loved and connected to you.

Visit a therapist Help your loved one connect, whether in person or online, with a licensed therapist in Plano, Texas. Sometimes just having a conversation with a caring person can help reduce stress and anxiety. Reach out to us today at Texas Christian Counseling in Plano to schedule an initial appointment.

Be predictable (with a hint of surprise) Anxiety feeds off uncertainty, so for most seniors, a predictable schedule brings stability and peace. A set routine for eating and naps will help your elderly parent know what to expect and may help reduce anxiety.

But it’s also important to infuse their routine with a few fun surprises, just to help distract their mind from worries. For example, along with their typical Friday night meal, add a yummy and healthy dessert or surprise them with a phone call from their grandchildren.

Show them their value It’s difficult for elderly people to need others when they’ve been independent for most of their lives. Sometimes anxiety stems from the feeling of worthlessness or that their value to society has diminished.

Mitigate these feelings by giving them purpose. Ask their advice, consult them before you make decisions, and listen when they speak. You may find that you will benefit from their wisdom more than they will from your questions.

Ignite their interests Think back to hobbies your elderly parents enjoyed when they were younger and figure out a way for them to enjoy them again. You may have to modify how your parents participate, but with some creativity, you may be able to help them enjoy these things again. For example, if your parent used to love to play the guitar but has been robbed of this due to arthritis, consider taking them to an acoustic guitar session at a local coffee shop in Plano.

Make connections Old age can be very isolating. Many elderly people have had to live through the deaths of loved ones, time and time again. Help offset this loneliness by helping them make authentic connections.

Take your elderly parent to church or the local senior center in Plano, Texas. Help them video chat with distant relatives or arrange for a visit from an old friend. Any way you can help your elderly parent stay socially connected will help ward off anxiety.

Encourage self-care While some aged people find it difficult to maintain their own self-care routine, it is important to make sure that they stay clean and healthy. If they are unable to shower or bathe themselves, consider hiring outside assistance. Depression and anxiety feed off of unkept hair and unwashed bodies.

Seeing your elderly parents wrought with anxiety can be sad and stress-inducing for you, too. If you’re struggling with caregiving your aging parents, consider visiting a therapist in Plano Christian Counseling, Texas who can help you sort through your emotions and offer you specific tactics for dealing with your unique situation. The therapists at Texas Christian Counseling in Plano can help. Give us a call today.