With aging, it's almost inevitable that we go through major life changes. And with just one or two, it can severely impact our outlook on life, as well as cause significant emotional distress.
There are, of course, healthy ways to manage this stress, but it isn't always doable. As a result, we resort to maladaptive coping, which can worsen both your mental and physical health over time.
If your elderly loved one in Redlands, CA has unhealthy coping habits, it's important to understand what it is, common triggers, warning signs to watch out for, and how to support healthy coping and emotional resilience. This article will go over all these things so you can take good care of your senior.
Maladaptive coping is when someone uses ineffective or harmful strategies to deal with emotional distress. You may get temporary relief, but in the long run, these mechanisms often lead to negative consequences. Plus, they prevent long-term adaptation to stress.
Older adults are at risk for maladaptive coping since they face unique stressors. They include:
Here are the common ones to look for.
According to the AARP, almost 90% of seniors took prescription medication in the last 12 months. So it's very possible for them to abuse things like painkillers and sleeping pills. They may also misuse over-the-counter drugs.
In addition, alcohol use is normalized in our society, so it's harder to detect misuse in older adults. They may also hide their alcohol use.
Seniors may avoid social contact or refuse visitors when going through emotional distress. They'll spend long hours alone, watching TV or sleeping.
Another stress response in older adults is giving up their hobbies or routines. This can cause their mental well-being to deteriorate further.
Your loved one may downplay the significance of losses or trauma. Also, they may ignore serious health symptoms and refuse medical treatment.
Have you noticed that the senior in your life has been relying excessively on caregivers, even for tasks that they can perform? This may be a form of maladaptive coping.
They may be exhibiting learned helplessness, too. It's a way to avoid anxiety-inducing activities.
Letting your emotions sit unprocessed can cause them to fester. As a result, seniors may have sudden mood swings. They might lash out both verbally and physically, and their emotional health in aging may be poor.
Both binge eating and complete disinterest in food are unhealthy coping mechanisms. This includes using food for comfort rather than nourishment.
While you've just learned the common maladaptive behaviors, they aren't always immediately observable. They can go undetected if you aren't aware of what to look out for.
The senior behavior changes that can happen with maladaptive coping are:
Don't despair if you've noticed unhealthy coping mechanisms in your loved one. There are ways to help them get on the right track.
The first is to create a safe and nonjudgmental environment. If you can listen actively, validate their feelings, and avoid minimizing their struggles, then they'll feel more comfortable opening up to you.
If they're misusing substances, then you shouldn't confront them directly. Instead, ask open-ended questions and help them collaborate with their doctors to review prescriptions. You can also provide support options like therapy or support groups that are tailored to seniors.
Do seek professional help if:
Otherwise, you can try these other things to support your loved one.
One of the best things you can do for a senior is let them know that they're not alone. You should arrange weekly visits or video calls, and if possible, encourage intergenerational bonding by bringing your kids or young volunteers.
It's not possible to spend all your time with them, nor is it your responsibility, so you can also connect them with senior centers, clubs, or faith groups. Have them pick up new hobbies, go volunteering, or teach others.
Routines are always good for everyone, but especially so for seniors who are struggling. With a daily structure, they'll have security and something to look forward to every day.
For example, they should have scheduled meals, walks, or hobbies. You can use gentle reminders or calendars if they need assistance with medications and appointments.
In addition, we can't stress the importance of sleep hygiene. Good sleep means better overall health.
Mind-body therapies are very effective for healing and coping. The following are great practices to do for seniors:
You don't have to go too far out of your comfort zone if those don't appeal to you. For instance, art, music, and pet therapy can all still promote emotional well-being.
If you detect maladaptive coping in your loved one, then it's possibly a sign of deeper emotional or psychological distress. It's not a part of normal aging, so recognizing these signs early can dramatically improve their quality of life.
So use the information you've learned in this article to keep a close and caring eye on your elderly loved one. You can put them on the path of healthy coping mechanisms so they can age with dignity.
For more on senior living in Redlands, CA, get in touch with us now. Mission Commons provides our residents with three chef-prepared meals a day.