Stress Management Tips For Seniors
“If you ask what is the single most important key to longevity, I would have to say it is avoiding worry, stress and tension.” – George Burns
Everyone, from time to time, experiences stress in life, even as we become seniors. You would think that as we age, the pressures and stress that accompany our younger years – family, work, relationships – would disappear, and life would be easy…but other things come along that create tension, frustration and worry in our lives.
As we age, our resilience to the effects of stress change, it becomes harder for us to cope than it was when we were younger. Our bodies have a natural stress response that declines when we get older – our heart and lung capacity typically decline, our cells age, and we are unable to clear the brain of the stress hormones that have flooded it.
Problems that stress can create…
It’s important to recognize what is causing your stress so you can avoid those situations and the chronic stress that comes with them, along with the risk of some health issues it can create.
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Heartburn
- Worsen diabetes by increasing blood sugar
- Cause insomnia
- Create high blood pressure
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Indigestion
- Weaken your immune system
What can you do to manage your stress?
Get Physical! If you don’t already have some type of physical activity you’re already engaged in…find something you would enjoy doing. There is nothing that will improve your mood and reduce your stress better than regular movement.- Pet Your Pet! Research has shown that having a pet to care for and love can actually lower stress. If you don’t have a furry friend, you might want to consider getting one, but don’t forget to consider if having a pet is a commitment you want to or can make. Even having a little fish to enjoy can help you relax and calm you down.
- Just Breathe! Practice some deep breathing exercises…they can be simple and very effective in lowering stress levels. (One simple exercise is to slowly breathe in as you count 1-2-3-4, then slowly breathe out as you count to 4 again).
- Think About It! Regular meditation is a great way to bring peace into your life. This is a good time to practice your deep breathing while you meditate on things that make you happy or things you’re grateful for.
- Switch It Up! Regular routines often become monotonous…instead of dusting and doing the dishes at the same time each day, take a break from the routine, and go for a walk, call a friend or read a book.
- Just Say No! Oftentimes, saying yes to too many commitments causes us a great amount of stress. Learning to say no kindly but firmly will lighten your load and your stress.
We are Certified Senior Move Managers recognized by our National Association of Senior Move Managers, NASMM! We are committed to serving our seniors with a high standard of ethics, best business practices and continuing education to help make whatever transition they are going through a Smooth Transition.
Contact us to learn how we can help you and/or your family cope with a senior downsizing anywhere in the Phoenix East Valley area…we offer a Free consultation.
We would love to serve you. 480-339-0011
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