As we age, we gather numerous life experiences, and unfortunately, some of them are challenges or negative events. For example, we may go through the loss of loved ones or suffer from declining health.
Although some seniors are able to adapt to these changes in healthy ways, others may turn to maladaptive coping strategies. As a result, their physical, mental, and emotional well-being may be harmed.
Understanding unhealthy coping skills in seniors in Glendale, AZ is important for not only caregivers and health professionals, but also family members. So read on to find out more about this subject.
Seniors are vulnerable to unhealthy coping for several reasons. For one, there may be a generational stigma, as many adults grew up when mental health care was taboo.
They may also have chronic illness/pain, cognitive decline, and loneliness/grief. All these things, coupled with a loss of independence, may push seniors into harmful habits. The most common ones are listed below.
Do note that you should call a doctor, therapist, or emergency services if you notice:
According to the American Psychological Association (APA), one in 11 adults over 60 had a substance use disorder (SUD) in 2022, and this number is expected to keep increasing. Common substances they may abuse are:
The red flags to watch out for include:
As a way to cope with sadness, grief, or declining health, some seniors may retreat from their normal social life. The red flags here are:
Food is often used as a coping tool; it can be a source of comfort or control. Unfortunately, we must eat to live, so it can be tough to break away from this unhealthy coping mechanism.
The red flags to watch out for are:
To deal with aging and stress, some seniors may use compulsive behaviors. These can help them exert control over life or distract from emotional pain. They may have these common behaviors:
It can be difficult to face your feelings, no matter what age you are. So, rather than doing so, some seniors may downplay or outright ignore emotional distress.
Watch out for:
In some cases, emotional pain may be "converted" into actual physical symptoms. This is known as somatization, and these are the red flags:
Spotting these red flags in your beloved older adult can be distressing. However, the good news is that there are ways for you to support them.
The most important thing to do is to have open lines of communication. Express your concerns gently and with love, and use open-ended questions that avoid judgment or criticism.
Here are some other ways you can help them develop healthier coping skills.
Many seniors feel lonely and isolated, which doesn't help their mental health at all. So, invite them to fathering gatherings or community activities to maintain a healthy social connection with them. And if they live alone, arrange regular calls or visits.
You can also help them join senior centers, clubs, or faith groups. Volunteering opportunities are great too, as they can socialize while achieving a sense of purpose.
Behavioral awareness in older adults can be tough to nail down, and it shouldn't be your responsibility. Instead, help them find geriatric therapists or counselors; these professionals can help them navigate challenging times and issues.
If they don't feel comfortable going, then normalize therapy by letting them know that it's helped you. You can also offer to attend sessions with them.
You should encourage your loved one to have regular doctor visits and medication reviews. In addition, you should promote physical activity, even if it's just light walking or chair exercises.
If they're having trouble with eating, then suggest that they see a nutritionist. They can then learn healthier eating habits.
When you have something to look forward to, you'll have better self-worth and purpose. So help your loved one find hobbies, volunteering opportunities, or mentoring roles.
You can also help create daily routines that include enjoyable activities. If they achieve small accomplishments, celebrate them!
It can be tempting to fall back on old, unhealthy habits. Decrease the chances of that happening by ensuring a safe, clean, and comfortable living environment for your beloved senior.
If there are addictive substances in the house, reduce access to them. You can hold onto them and only hand them out as needed.
Should compulsive shopping be a concern, then monitor their financial activity. That way, you'll know immediately if they've "relapsed."
Unfortunately, a good proportion of seniors develop unhealthy coping skills when they're experiencing something unbearable. But if you keep a vigilant eye out, you can detect red flags and get them the help they need.
Your role is to gently guide them toward healthier coping mechanisms; don't try to "fix" them. With your love, patience, and support, the senior in your life can eventually thrive both emotionally and mentally.
Get in touch with us today if you want to learn more about senior living in Glendale, AZ. Westgate Village has a full calendar of enriching activities to support our residents' overall well-being.