Seniors are the fastest growing segment of the population in the United States, which also means that they are among the fastest growing populations suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). According to recent research, seniors aged 65 or older account for 7% of the United States population, but 15% of Americans with PTSD. It’s becoming increasingly important to understand this disorder and how to deal with it when facing a senior who may be suffering from PTSD symptoms.

When you think of PTSD, most people conjure up images of veterans returning from battle in the Middle East with flashbacks and other symptoms of the disorder. But did you know that PTSD can affect anyone? It’s estimated that over 7% of the U.S. population suffers from it at some point in their lives, making it the most common anxiety disorder in America today. This includes seniors, who often struggle with PTSD symptoms due to physical and mental health problems related to aging and abuse and neglect by caregivers, often misdiagnosed as signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

What is PTSD?

The Center for Disease Control estimates that 7.8 percent of the U.S. population will experience PTSD at some point in their lifetime. The CDC defines PTSD as a mental health problem that can occur after someone goes through a traumatic event like combat, abuse, or a natural disaster, which makes sense, considering about 20 percent of veterans from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan have been diagnosed with PTSD so far. Symptoms of this disorder can include nightmares, flashbacks, insomnia, and more, and they have severe implications for every area of your life if you let them take over your life completely.

A post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that can develop in people who have been through or witnessed a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, serious accident, terrorist attack, war or battle, or rape, as well as in those who have faced threats of rape, death, or other serious harm.

How common is it amongst seniors

In one study of 60,000 older adults in Sweden with a history of trauma, nearly 3% had experienced symptoms for more than three months.

These numbers are disturbing, but luckily there are resources available to help. If you have insomnia, depression, or self-harm symptoms, please contact your doctor for advice.

PTSD Assessment and Diagnosis in seniors

Symptoms of PTSD can be different for seniors than for younger adults. For example, a senior may relive the event through memories or dreams, whereas a younger adult may experience flashbacks. Other symptoms include avoidance, negative mood and thought patterns changes, and constantly on edge. A diagnosis of PTSD requires that an individual experiences symptoms for more than one month following a traumatic event.

Special Considerations for Treatment to help sufferers

Though the rate of diagnosis for PTSD is lower in seniors than in other age groups, those who do suffer from the disorder often have a more difficult time seeking treatment. This is partly due to the fact that many seniors are reluctant to talk about their experiences or may not even realize they have PTSD. When seeking treatment, it’s essential to find a therapist who is experienced in working with seniors and can help them process their trauma safely and effectively.

What is the most devastating effect of PTSD on Seniors

The most devastating effect of PTSD on seniors is the way it can make them feel isolated and alone. The condition can cause them to withdraw from friends and family, leading to feelings of loneliness and depression. Additionally, the flashbacks and nightmares associated with PTSD can be extremely distressing, making it difficult for seniors to get a good night’s sleep. This can lead to fatigue, irritability, and a general decline in overall health.  Considering a Senior Independent Living Facility to improve socialization may improve a seniors overall quality of life.

Final thoughts

The prevalence of PTSD is incredibly high among seniors who have experienced a traumatic event. The effects of PTSD can be debilitating, making it difficult for seniors to live their lives to the fullest. However, with proper treatment, many seniors can overcome PTSD and live happy, healthy lives.

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If you’re an older adult, staying healthy can be more complicated than when you were younger. As your body ages, your muscle and bone strength decreases, making it harder to maintain the same active lifestyle you had in your 20s and 30s. However, there are ways to slow down these changes and remain as active as possible as you get older. Seniors must take steps to stay healthy and active in their later years, so they can live their golden years without having to worry about rising medical costs.

It’s easy to get caught up in how our bodies change as we age and forget how much we can do to keep our minds and bodies active, healthy, and engaged. Here are tips for staying healthy and active in your senior years so that you can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Eat a healthy diet

As we age, we must focus on our diets to maintain our health. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help keep our bodies strong. Additionally, seniors should limit their intake of saturated fats, salt, and sugar. A doctor or dietician can help you set up a healthy diet plan to meet your needs.  There are many dieticians focusing on Senior health in the Melbourne, FL area.

Keep active

Try biking, bowling, or walking to keep active as a senior. You can also join a club that does activities like bingo or yoga. Stay involved with your community by joining clubs for seniors in your area (55+ Club of Satellite Beach, https://55plusclubofsb.com/ and volunteering at organizations such as soup kitchens. The more you’re out there, the more you’ll meet people who can offer assistance when you need it.

Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. It can help control your weight, reduce heart disease, stroke, and diabetes risk, and improve your mental health and mood. Plus, staying active can help keep your bones and muscles strong as you age. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (such as brisk walking) on most days of the week.  To view some of the highest rated trails in Melbourne, FL click here.

Take supplements

As we age, our bodies become less efficient at absorbing nutrients from our food. This is why many seniors take supplements to ensure they get the necessary nutrients. It’s important to talk with your doctor before taking any new supplements to know what vitamins and minerals you may be deficient in.

Stay informed on medication management

As a senior, staying on top of your medication management is important. This means knowing what medications you’re taking, why you’re taking them, and keeping track of when to take them. It’s also important to know the side effects of your medications and to watch for any changes in how they affect you.  At The Residences at Zon Beachside located in Melbourne, FL, you can receive assistance with medication reminders.  For more information click here.

Go for walks and exercise regularly

The best type of exercise for seniors is low-impact exercises like walking or swimming because these activities won’t put too much strain on your body’s joints

Try to walk for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week. If you can’t walk for that long, start with shorter increments of time and work your way up. Regular exercise will help you maintain your independence and improve your overall health.  With our many seasons and warm weather we enjoy in Melbourne, FL, you can always find new trails and walking paths to enjoy.

Talk with your doctor before starting any exercise routine, and always consult them before beginning any new exercise routine. Choose an activity that interests you and is comfortable for your body type, so you don’t get bored quickly. If you are not physically able to do an activity such as running or swimming, you can choose other activities such as biking or taking walks with your family member.

Final Thoughts

As we age, keeping up with our health and wellness is essential.  To stay healthy and active in your senior years, ensure you get enough sleep each night, maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and reduce stress. Take time for yourself each day by practicing self-care activities like taking a bath or reading a book. You’ll be healthier in your senior years if you adopt these habits today.

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