What Do the Elderly Worry About?

What do your elderly mom and dad worry about most? Each year, the United States of Aging asks seniors to complete a survey regarding things that concern elderly men and women across the nation. Here are the top fears and what you can do to ease those fears.

Home Care Shelter Island NY: Mental Health for Seniors

Staying Healthy

During this survey of 1,650 people, 4 out of 10 admitted that staying healthy is something they worry about. They agree that a healthy diet, proper amounts of sleep, and positive attitude are key to health. Oddly, few seniors said they considered going to the doctor for regular checkups and taking prescribed medications was as important as the others.

Make sure your mom or dad go to the doctor for check-ups each year. These health screenings are key to finding health issues as early as possible. Blood pressure readings, cholesterol checks, and vaccinations all help keep the elderly healthy.

Getting Dementia

When it comes to dementia and memory loss, it’s a fear of more than one-third of the participants. While doctors see illness and socialization as key factors in maintaining cognitive skills, seniors feel it’s an exercise that matters most.

After retirement, it can be harder for seniors to keep in touch with friends. Make sure your parents have ample opportunities to remain social. You can do this by having them spend time at the local senior center or by arranging companionship services when you can’t be there.

Avoiding Mental Illness

More than one-third of seniors also worry about mental illness as they age. This is a key concern as depression is prevalent in older men and women. Isolation and loneliness are two reasons why they can become depressed. Chronic illnesses are another major reason for depression.

Know the signs of depression. Your parent may stop doing things he or she used to love. You may find them not wanting to get out of bed. They may be irritable and angry. If you suspect depression, contact your parent’s doctor.

Keeping Up With the Rising Cost of Living

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that $100 in groceries in 2012 now cost you more than $106. Bills keep rising, and it’s getting hard for many seniors to keep up with the increases. Seniors worry about being able to afford the things they cannot avoid like health insurance and housing.

Sit down with your parents and go over bills regularly to see if there is any way to save. Contacting companies often leads to discounts if you say you’re shopping around for a better rate.

Having Enough Support to Age at Home

Ease any fears your mom and dad have about aging at home. With a companion to prevent loneliness and senior care services around the house, they can age at home without worrying about isolation or safety issues. Call a senior care agency to learn more about aging at home.

If you or an aging loved one is considering Home Care in Shelter Island, NY, call the caring staff at Artful Home Care today at 631-685-5001.

Sources:
https://www.ncoa.org
https://www.bls.gov