The month of October is a busy time – not only is the season of fall coming into full swing, but the anticipation of Halloween is building all month.Decorations of witches, ghosts and goblins adorn doors, front porches and really anywhere else someone is feeling in the spirit. For many, the spooky atmosphere of Halloween is all in good fun, but for many elderly persons, the fears they experience all year long bring real anxiety from many unknown factors associated with aging.
While the reality of these fears can be very tangible (and not limited to the Halloween season), older loved ones should not have to live in fear or go through the uncertainty alone. There are many community resources available to them, including senior centers and many local organizations that cater to the older generation. Senior living communities like Evergreen Senior Living provide seminars and talks on many topics pertinent to the elderly community. The wellness team at Evergreen Senior Living is available to give guidance on questions that seniors may have: healthcare questions, Medicare and Medicaid questions, care services available and more.
One of the main fears that older Americans experience is the uncertainty surrounding their health. This is a complex subject that can easily bring about subsequent fears as potential situations unfold. A person who is already in poor health will worry about their ability to pay for care, who will provide that care, and where they will live. Those already experiencing chronic conditions will probably have more anxiety about the possible scenarios as they may already be in a position where they require a lot of care and take multiple medications. Healthy seniors may worry that a sudden fall or unexpected illness will leave them in a state where they are unable to care for themselves.
Not being able to care for themselves or live at home any longer can be a source of stress for the elderly. An assisted living, supportive living or skilled nursing care community can be intimidating for those who have little experience and are ignorant of the modern environment and personal care services available. Assisted and supportive living communities like Evergreen Senior Living are for seniors who still have the ability to provide a lot of their own care, and only need help with some of their daily activities. Supportive living communities accept Medicaid, making this lifestyle affordable for everyone.
For seniors who realize they are less able to execute some daily activities like dress themselves, perform basic hygiene practices and manage their medications, the wellness team at Evergreen Senior Living is there to provide those services. It can be difficult to accept help from persons who are initially strangers, and seniors may balk at allowing unknown caregivers into their lives. The caregiving team at Evergreen treats each resident like family, providing them with dignified care and discreet service. It is a fear that is quickly dissolved when seniors choose to become a resident at an Evergreen Senior Living community.
Other fears seniors experience is the apprehension of losing their beloved spouse or lifelong friends. Losing loved ones can spur senior’s fears of being alone, which can lead to depression and isolation. The Life Enrichment program at Evergreen provides a wide swath of activities, outings and opportunities to make new friends and share experiences with neighbors and other community members. The worry of being secluded is easily assuaged when seniors choose to live at Evergreen Senior Living.
The fear that they will run out of money is another concern for the elderly. Having enough money is something people of all generations worry about, but the elderly more so because they are less likely to be unable to re-enter the workforce and regain a steady income. Seniors worry that they may have to make a choice between paying the electric bill and paying for necessary medications. Helping your elderly loved one with their finances can help alleviate some of their stress and worry.
The fear that accompanies aging may be impossible to completely avoid, but our elderly loved ones should not have to carry the burden of such worry alone. Reach out to a senior living organization near you, like Evergreen Senior Living, to learn more about the resources available in your area. It’s not all Halloween tricks, there’s definitely some treats in there, too.
