As we get older, many things change. Our bodies, minds, and responses to medicine can vary. As you grow older, be careful with anxiety medications.
At Focus Medical and Mental Healthcare Inc., we focus on Medication Management and Anxiety Disorders, providing personalized care for older adults. Whether you’re new to anxiety treatment or adjusting due to age, we’re here to help.
Here’s what you need to know about taking anxiety medications as a senior. We’ll share tips, things to watch for, and ways to stay healthy and feel your best.
Why Managing Anxiety is Important for Older Adults
Anxiety can affect anyone. As we age, we may face new worries like health issues, loss of loved ones, or loneliness. It is essential to get the assistance of a trusted provider good at dealing with aging and mental health.
At Focus Medical and Mental Healthcare Inc., our staff performs Psychiatric care and provides individual anxiety management to older people so that everyone will receive the appropriate attention.
Unmonitored, certain medicines could negatively affect dizziness, tiredness, disorientation, and, hence, fall concerns. This must be done with a professional offering continuous monitoring and assistance.
How Aging Affects Your Body and Medication
As you age, your liver and kidneys may slow down. These organs help process medications. Slower function may cause your body to hold onto the medicine longer, leading to side effects.
Many older adults take multiple medications, known as polypharmacy. Review them regularly with your provider.
At Focus Medical and Mental Healthcare Inc., our Medication Management service ensures your prescriptions are safe and effective. We follow the “start low and go slow” approach to minimize side effects and ensure safety.
How to Handle Anxiety Medications as You Get Older
Here are some simple steps to use anxiety medications safely:
- Keep a Medication List
Make a list of all your medications, supplements, and vitamins. Give this list to all of your doctors. This assists them in not prescribing medication that does not blend well with other medicines.
- Take Medicines on Time
Take pills using a pillbox or set an alarm on the phone. It will assist your medicine in working when you take your medicine at the same time and day.
- Don’t Skip or Double Doses
If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist what to do. Never take two doses at once.
- Watch for Side Effects
Inform your doctor if you feel dizzy, sleepy, have blurred vision, or cannot think clearly. This can be the side effect of the medicine.
- Regular Check-Ups
Regular doctor visits help ensure your medication is working. They can adjust your dose or suggest alternatives.
At Focus Medical and Mental Healthcare Inc., our Psychiatric Evaluation and ongoing medication management services include regular follow-ups to ensure your treatment meets your needs.
Common Types of Anxiety Medications for Seniors
Common medications for anxiety in older adults include:
- SSRIs, such as sertraline and escitalopram, are safe.
- SNRIs, like duloxetine, help with pain.
- Benzodiazepines act fast, but can cause drowsiness or confusion, especially in older adults.
At Focus Medical and Mental Healthcare Inc., we carefully choose the best options for you, balancing safety and effectiveness through expert Medication Management.
Lifestyle Tips to Help with Anxiety
Although medication plays a role, lifestyle habits influence how you feel daily.
- Stay Active: Walk, stretch, or try gentle exercises like yoga. Movement reduces stress and helps you sleep better.
- Eat Healthy Foods: Feed your body healthy foods to determine the right food sources.
- Sleep Well: Have an effective sleep schedule. Avoid caffeine in the afternoon or evening.
- Socialize Yourself: Be social by calling or visiting; this will help in curbing loneliness and anxiety.,
- Deep Breathing: In case of anxiety, engage in deep breathing, inhaling for four seconds, holding, and slowly exhaling.
We also have Stress Management services at Focus Medical and Mental Healthcare Inc., where you can receive the necessary services to develop skills in coping with obstacles and restoring peace.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
Reach out if:
- Your anxiety worsens
- Your medicine isn’t helping
- You feel spinning, unclear, or excessively tired
- You want to change or stop your medicine
At Focus Medical and Mental Healthcare Inc., we guide you through every stage of treatment. Stopping your medicine suddenly can worsen anxiety and cause withdrawal. Let us help you adjust safely.
What Family Members Can Do to Help
If your family member is on anxiety medication, support them by:
- Help them remember to take their medicine
- Check in often
- Accompany them to appointments
- Watch for side effects or mood changes
Your help can go a long way towards their recovery and general health.
Final Thoughts
Getting older doesn’t mean living with anxiety. You can find peace and happiness again. Get the right help, safe medications, and care from a psychiatrist.
For mental ease, sensibly use anxiety medications and communicate with your doctor.
At Focus Medical and Mental Healthcare Inc., we provide compassionate psychiatric care tailored to your life stage.
From anxiety disorders and medication management to stress management and mood disorders, we’re committed to helping you thrive.
Are you ready to take a step?
Book a Psychiatric Evaluation or explore our Medication Management and Anxiety Disorders services today. Contact us now to start your journey toward calmer days and better health.
FAQs
Q: Can anxiety go away on its own in older adults?
In some cases, a professional intervention helps to recover quickly and safely. Focus Medical and Mental Healthcare Inc. offers care plans that combine therapy, medicine, and lifestyle coaching.
Q: What anxiety medication is safest for seniors?
SSRIs such as sertraline and escitalopram are widely prescribed, yet everyone varies. At Focus Medical and Mental Healthcare Inc., our Psychiatric Evaluations help determine what’s right for you.
