Does your elderly loved one seem different than usual? Do they not seem like themselves? There are numerous things that could cause your elderly loved one to seem different. Physical and emotional things could be the source of these changes. Your elderly loved one could be stressed. There are some things that you might notice if your elderly loved one is stressed.
Eating Too Much
Many people will eat a lot of food if they are stressed. This is primarily because their body releases a lot more cortisol when under stress. This is the hormone that puts the person’s body into fight or flight mode. While in this mode, the body can feel like it has to defend itself. Being in this state for a while can take one’s energy away. When this happens, that person might feel hungry, which is why they eat a lot when stressed. If you or one of the elderly care providers realize that your loved one is eating too much, you may want to talk to them and see if they are stressed about something.
Not Sleeping Well
How has your elderly loved one been sleeping? If you or the elderly care providers have noticed that your elderly loved one is not sleeping well, this could be another sign that they are stressed. When some people are stressed, their mind just won’t shut off at night. They can’t stop thinking about whatever it is that is causing their stress. If this is the case for your loved one, they may have a tough time going to sleep or staying asleep. If this continues, they may need to talk to their doctor about options to help them sleep better. This might include lifestyle changes or medications.
Increased Blood Pressure
Many people will have increased blood pressure when they are stressed. If it seems like your elderly loved one is stressed, you or their elderly care providers can check their blood pressure. If it is higher than it should be, find out if they are stressed. If they are stressed and you help them take care of what is stressing them out, check their blood pressure again. If it goes down, the high blood pressure was likely a result of the stress. If not, they should see their doctor.
These are some of the ways that you can tell if your elderly loved one is stressed. If you or one of the elderly care providers notice that your loved one is stressed, talk to them. From there, you can make a plan to work things out. For instance, if someone in their life is causing them stress, maybe you recommend that they don’t talk to that person as much.
Source: https://www.health.harvard.edu/aging/how-stress-affects-seniors-and-how-to-manage-it
If you or an aging loved one are considering Elderly Care Services in Wellesley MA, or anywhere in Eastern Massachusetts, please call the caring staff at CARE Resolutions – (508) 906-5572.
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