How To Deal With Five Common Stressors of Aging by Marjorie McMillian
People face a range of stressors related to their health, housing, finances, and social lives as they age. Managing all the changes can quickly become overwhelming! Fortunately, there are ways to alleviate these stressors and help you feel more in control of your life. Bo Syrotiak, Ph.D. looks at five common stressors for seniors and how to handle them:
1. Limited Mobility and Health Issues
You might be worried about your physical abilities diminishing with age. This could mean limited mobility, pain from arthritis or other conditions, or any number of issues that limit what you can do. It’s best to consult your doctor on how to address these issues; they can also provide guidance on managing your condition and ensuring you’re exercising regularly within your limits.
Remember to talk about the emotional toll that comes with specific health issues like chronic pain. Make sure you have a support system in place so you can deal with these kinds of stressors healthily.
2. Lack of Structure
Many seniors struggle without having their days structured for work and other commitments. A healthy morning routine should be a top priority!
Begin your routine with a nutritious breakfast that fills you up and will keep you energized throughout the day. Then, take some time to meditate and clear away any negative thoughts or emotions. Reading an inspirational book or listening to some positive music can provide a boost of enthusiasm! The key is to establish a consistent routine so you can get into the habit of feeling balanced and well-prepared each morning.
3. Housing or Downsizing
Some people find that they need a different type of living situation as they age. Maybe you need to move into an assisted living facility, downsize into a smaller house or apartment, or make changes in your current home, so it’s easier to manage day-to-day tasks. Take time to research various housing options to determine what is ideal for you; this can alleviate some of the uncertainty around the issue.
If you’re looking for an accessible apartment to age in place, search online listings for one that meets your specific needs. Look for an affordable apartment building with great security and elevators (if possible). You could also speak with neighbors or other tenants to get an idea of the building's atmosphere and amenities.
4. Retirement Transitions
Retirement can be a challenging transition for seniors, particularly first responders. It’s essential to find ways to adjust over time and develop a plan that works for your unique circumstances. Taking on new hobbies or joining clubs is an excellent way to stay mentally active and engaged in your community while also staying socially connected with old friends and making new ones.
You might look into volunteer opportunities or part-time jobs that align with your interests. Doing so can boost your income and give you something else to focus on outside of retirement. Finding mentally and physically engaging activities is crucial for transitioning into retired life!
5. Financial Security
Stress over financial security often goes hand-in-hand with aging. Retirees may not have access to Social Security benefits or pensions anymore, meaning they need other income sources to ensure financial stability.
Working part-time or finding a hobby that generates extra income can bolster your financial security without putting too much physical or emotional strain on yourself. Of course, if money is tight, it’s always worth speaking with a financial advisor who has experience working with seniors. That way, you can make informed decisions about your finances going forward.
Summary
Aging brings its own set of challenges. The good news is that there are many ways for seniors to cope with these challenges while remaining independent and active members of society!
Whether it’s navigating mobility issues, starting your day off strongly, finding an accessible home, or implementing any of the other ideas above, you can begin laying a foundation for a fulfilling retired life today. Managing life‘s stressors comes down to the approach you take — try to stay active, social, and open to new possibilities!
Would you like to read more helpful content or learn about my occupational therapy services? Visit BoSyrotiak.com today!
Note: I would like to thank Marjorie McMillian for her meaningful contribution. The author of this essay, Marjorie McMillian, can be reached at marjoriem@comeongetwell.net.