Five Health Effects of Stress on Elderly People

Stress can affect anyone. However, as we age, coping with stress can become more challenging, and can lead to more severe health effects. Five health effects of stress in elderly people may include:

1. Weakened immune system
2. Heart and cardiovascular problems
3. Dental problems
4. Digestive problems
5. Memory problems

Although some stress is normal in all stages of life, older adults, in particular, should work to keep stress levels low. Elderly people should notify their health care provider of an increase in stress or difficulty managing stress.

How does stress affect elderly people’s health?

As we age, so do the cells in our body. This means that essential functions in the body, including the cardiovascular, respiratory, and digestive systems no longer function as well as they did when we were younger.

When stressed, the body releases powerful stress hormones called cortisol and adrenaline. Excessive production of these stress hormones takes a toll on the various systems of the body, which are not functioning at an optimal level, due to age. If stress is not managed, it has the potential to severely affect the health of elderly people.

Weakened Immune System

Stress decreases your body’s lymphocytes, which are the white blood cells that help to fight off infection. This can lead to frequent viral infections, including the common cold. It can also cause chronic illnesses to flare up more frequently. Recovery from illness may also take longer if you’re experiencing stress.

Heart and Cardiovascular Problems

The stress hormone adrenaline leads to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. This increase can damage blood vessels and arteries, increasing the risk of stroke, heart attack, or cardiovascular disease in seniors.

Digestive Problems

Stress can cause indigestion, including diarrhea because stress can cause your central nervous system to reduce blood flow to the stomach. This can lead to digestive muscle cramping and reduced production of secretions necessary for healthy digestion. Untreated, chronic stress in older adults may lead to ulcers, or conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome.

Memory Problems

Chronic or repeated stress has been linked to poorer cognitive function, accelerated cognitive decline, and increased incidence of dementia in older adults. Even occasional stress can lead to short-term memory problems and forgetfulness.

Dental Problems

Our teeth weaken as we age, which makes older adults more susceptible to dental fractures and cavities. Unfortunately, the risk of these potential dental problems is increased if stress leads to jaw clenching, or grinding your teeth at night.

Signs of Stress in Elderly People

All individuals will experience stress a little bit differently. Some of the signs of stress in elderly people may include:

• Changes in appetite
• Tension headaches
• Depression
• Difficulty concentrating
• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• Difficulty making decisions
• Digestive problems
• Hyperactivity
• Increased anxiety
• Irritability
• Memory problems
• Physical pain (back, neck, joints)
• Social withdrawal or isolation

Common Stressors for Elderly Adults

Some stressors that elderly adults experience may affect people of all ages. These can include things like family problems, etc. Other stressors tend to affect seniors more than young people. Common stressors for elderly adults may include:

• Loss of independence (unable to live alone, perform household tasks, etc.)
• Increased reliance on others (assistance with shopping, errands, etc.)
• Deteriorating health
• Loss of a spouse, friends, siblings, pets
• Decreasing levels of energy
• Fear of healthcare costs

Tips for Managing Stress

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to managing stress. Different coping mechanisms may work better for some, than for others. Older adults experiencing stress may find some of the following tips helpful.

• Exercise safely, as often as possible
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Eat a healthy diet
• Practice breathing exercises or mindful meditation
• Keep in contact with loved ones
• Engage in a hobby or pastime

Talk to Your Health Care Provider About Stress

Older adults experiencing stress need to notify their health care provider. Stress can have harmful health impacts on elderly adults, so it is important that your health care provider know if you’re experiencing chronic stress.

Your health care provider will help you design a stress-reduction plan that may include dietary and exercise changes. Your health care provider may also refer you to a therapist for assistance in coping with stress.