Do seniors get grumpier as they age? They may, and it could affect their health – which is why managing anger is so important.
Anger is a legitimate emotion, and there is nothing wrong with expressing anger once in a while. Anger under control conveys strong emotion about something you find wrong or upsetting. However, in senior citizens, an increase in anger may signal a decline in health. (Source: Psychology and Aging) Prolonged bouts of anger may increase cardiovascular issues, diabetes, hypertension and high blood pressure, and anger also impacts immunity. Anger is also the reason behind many mental health issues, causes stress and anxiety, and severely affects clarity and focus.
Are You In Danger of Being Harmed by Anger?
Here is a quick self-check to understand just how anger is affecting your life. When you get angry:
- Does heartbeat increase?
- Do you clench your fists?
- Does your breathing increase?
- Do you start sweating?
- Does your voice shake?
- Do you feel tension throughout your body?
- Do you feel anxiety physically in your stomach?
If the answer is ‘yes’ for at least 2 of those questions, anger may be an issue that should be addressed. If your elderly loved one is suffering from anger issues, here are some ways to cope.
Managing Anger Issues in the Elderly
Managing anger begins in your thought process. An honest assessment of which thoughts lead to anger can help to avoid anger-induced situations.
- What are the Stressors? 67% of people with anger issues say their anger issues stem from an inability to manage stress
- Preconceived Ideas: Your long-held opinions can lead to frustration and anger, such as “they always act like this.”
- Set in Your Ways: Anger can happen if thins happen in a different way than you expect or feel right.
- Compulsive Behavior: Compulsive behavior can fill your mind with negative thoughts, and force out good and happy thoughts.
It is idealistic to think that anger can be eliminated and you can be perpetually peaceful. Getting angry is a normal part of life for anyone, and only becomes an issue when it is not handled correctly. Keep these tips in mind, or help your senior loved one to cultivate these habits and emotions in order to keep their health as optimal as possible.
- Remember that person in front of you is important to you. Winning the present argument often feeds your anger and can cost you the relationship.
- Forgive and forget is a princile often quoted but rarely acheived. Still ,those who can manage to practice these virtues tend to live in happiness and peace.
- Being aware of your own actions and identifying stress relieving practices that work for you will add more positivity day to day.
- Stress relieving activities like meditation can help immensely. It may take some trial and error to find what works for you, but once you hace it, use it!
- Exercise and yoga for seniors can decrease impulsive reactions and enhance clarity and focus.
We understand it is difficult to mitigate anger overnight. It takes consistency, practice and a lot of honest self-assessment. Being present with those you love, not letting emotions carry you away, thinking through the consequences of your imminent outburst can help in managing anger.
A Banyan Residence provides professional and compassionate assisted living and memory care to Venice area seniors.
