Stress in Older Adults – Meditation Helps!
Stress Affects Older Adults
Although we know that stress affects people of all ages, in all walks of life, many people harbor misconceptions that the lives of young adults and older adults have little or no stress compared to other segments of our population. To the contrary, stress has significant effects on both young and old, and everyone in between. (See my blog on teen stress.) It is well known that stress can lead to serious health issues such as hypertension and increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
Stress Triggers for Older Adults
While many older adults find great happiness in their lives, it is not uncommon for many to encounter stress. Causes of stress as we age may be different from those encountered in earlier stages of life, and the uncharted waters of life after 55 can present changes, challenges, turmoil, and unsettling emotions. Even happy events can trigger stress.
The American Institute on Stress (“AIS”)* cites stresses for older adults stemming from changes in physical strength and coordination, changes in environment, dealing with a loss of sense of purpose and productivity, a loss of independence, changes in memory or other thought processes, and loss of friends and relatives through death or social isolation. Loss of a spouse, which at any age is one of the greatest losses in life, can be particularly difficult for older adults who have been together for decades and shared so many life experiences. Older adults may not have a nearby support network to rely upon while grieving or facing other challenges.
Stress can also occur in the workplace for working older adults who may feel at a disadvantage in a rapidly changing and competitive work environment, including feeling pressure to keep pace with technology. As mentioned above, it is important to remember that even pleasant events such as retirement can create stresses. Retirement is a major life change. Any one the above circumstances is stressful, and it is not uncommon for more than one to occur within relatively short time frames.
Manifestations of Stress
Stress can exhibit itself through increased blood pressure, rapid heart rates, shallow breathing, insomnia, changes in appetite, memory issues, mood swings, irritability, increased aches and pains, social withdrawal, anxiety or agitation, fear, guilt, and depression. Our immune systems frequently weaken with age, and stress can further weaken our ability to fend off infections.
While all this seems to paint a less than happy picture, the good news is that we can do something about it – without the risk of any negative side effects. That something is a simple, basic practice of Meditation and related techniques which can significantly improve our lives physically, mentally, and emotionally. And it works without a huge investment of time or effort.
Why Meditation Works
Meditation is recommended as an effective avenue to relieve stress in older adults. It can be practiced at any time and without physical effort. Five minutes a day can make a significant difference in your life – physically, emotionally, and mentally. Meditation can significantly reduce blood pressure, lower respiration and heart rate, improve the body’s rate of detoxification, and some studies have shown it can help reduce arterial blockages. (Please note this is not a substitute for medical advice.) Meditation strengthens the immune system and promotes better rest. It can relieve chronic pain. It can improve moods, provides a sense of peace, a renewed connection to oneself and, according to one’s personal beliefs, to something greater. Meditation relieves fear, anxiety, depression, and promotes an improved sense of well-being. Meditating with one or more people can be particularly helpful as it promotes a sense of community as well as supports your Meditation practice.
About Susan
I’ve had the privilege of teaching older adults, beginning with my first class over 10 years ago. I learned my students’ sources of stress, and we worked with different meditation techniques, affirmations, and breathing exercises. After a few classes, one student found relief from chronic insomnia and “slept better than I have in years.” Another student who came to the first class wringing her hands overcame fear and began to drive with confidence again. One student’s husband wanted to know what I was doing to her in class because her nervous tension subsided and her laughter returned, even when she spilled bags of groceries. She hosted a dinner in good spirits despite the fact that her oven unexpectedly broke just hours before the dinner. She was able to take things in stride again, finding that her joy had replaced frustration. Nothing mysterious. All these things were the direct result of a simple practice of Meditation.
I hold two certifications and have been teaching since 2001. My approach focuses largely on easy to learn Meditation-based techniques, and is a comprehensive approach that includes instructing students in a variety of relaxation and meditation techniques. Classes include personal support with practice of the techniques and affirmations, which are tailored to the students. Whenever possible, I include some practical lifestyle tips, as well. Please contact me for more information on individual or group classes or workshops.
No matter what your age, Meditation can benefit you!
*I would be remiss if I failed to note another antidote to stress mentioned by the American Institute of Stress. The AIS gave a nod to the stress relieving benefits of animal companions. Many adult communities, nursing facilities, and hospitals have animals either as residents or have therapy animals as regular visitors. Just petting an animal immediately lowers blood pressure. Many of these “animal therapists” are rescue animals. Our four-footed friends are loving ambassadors of companionship, peace, and joy. If possible, you may want to consider adopting an animal companion. As the bumper sticker says, “Who rescued who?”