Understanding Anxiety as You Age: How to Find Support and Relief
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The Reality of Anxiety as You Age
Aging is a natural process often accompanied by unique challenges for older adults and their families. While some look forward to retirement, enjoying new freedom and time with grandchildren, others struggle to adapt to changes. Anxiety can become part of that challenge, and it’s more common than you may think.
Research indicates that anxiety affects between 5.5% and 10% of adults aged 65 and older, and the prevalence is higher among those in care facilities, with women reporting symptoms more often than men.
The physical and emotional changes of aging, along with losses such as diminished health, independence, and loved ones, can increase anxiety. Common anxiety disorders among older adults include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), agoraphobia, specific phobias, and social anxiety disorder.
Anxiety: The Silent Epidemic
Anxiety in older adults is sometimes referred to as the “silent epidemic” because many cases go unnoticed and untreated. Studies show anxiety is twice as prevalent as dementia and occurs four to eight times more often than major depressive disorders.
Older adults may dismiss anxiety symptoms as “just part of aging,” which often leads to underdiagnosis. Anxiety left untreated can worsen, impacting physical health, cognitive function, daily living activities, and overall quality of life.
Recognizing Anxiety in Older Adults
Risk factors for anxiety in aging adults may include:
- Chronic medical conditions
- Poor sleep quality
- Side effects of medications
- Alcohol or substance use
- Stressful life events or trauma
- Bereavement or complicated grief
- Limited mobility
- Family history of anxiety
Because anxiety symptoms can overlap with normal aging experiences, it can be difficult to recognize. Common signs may include:
- Persistent worry or irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Social withdrawal
- Fatigue or gastrointestinal distress
- Loss of interest in activities
- Excessive focus on health concerns
Can Therapy Help with Anxiety as You Age?
Anxiety does not have to be a permanent part of aging. Therapy and psychiatric medication management can help you regain peace of mind and confidence. Counselors and prescribers can help identify the sources of anxiety and develop coping strategies tailored to your needs.
At Carolina Counseling Services, Pittsboro, NC, our independently contracted therapists and prescribers are experienced in helping older adults navigate anxiety. We offer compassionate, individualized care to address your concerns and improve your quality of life.
We accept Aetna, Aetna State Health plan, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, Tricare, and many of the Medicaid policies to include Alliance, Carolina Complete Health, WellCare, Healthy Blue, and United Healthcare insurance.
Call today to schedule your first appointment and take the first step toward relief.
Ebone L. Rocker, LCMHCS, is one of the Owners and Vice Presidents of Carolina Counseling Services. She is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in the State of North Carolina.