During your career years, did you sometimes yearn for stress-free retirement years? And then it turns out that we aren’t exempt from stress after all – it’s just a different kind of stress.

What are some stresses we may experience in our later years?

• Physical limitations
• Deteriorating health
• Increased dependence on others
• Financial concerns
• Grief and loss
• Isolation and loneliness
• Reduced sense of meaning
• Caregiving

This is stressful! 

What are some common symptoms of stress?

• Feeling tired and irritable
• Poor concentration
• Difficulty sleeping
• Feeling sad, depressed, or having a negative outlook
• Digestive issues such as constipation, heartburn, or diarrhea
• Worrying
• Headaches or other pains
• Anxiety or panic attacks

This is miserable!

What are some ways to reduce stress?

• Schedule activities you enjoy and spend time with friends and family.
• Volunteer for a cause you care about (OR consider reducing the time you spend volunteering).
• Eat healthful foods.
• Exercise regularly.
• Get involved in community events.
• Meditate, do yoga, or practice mindfulness.
• Learn stress-reduction techniques, such as progressive relaxation and breathing exercises.
• Play with a pet.
• Join a social, hobby, or support group.
• Surround yourself with images or words of inspiration – art, books, nature, faith.
• Focus on strategies for coping with current stressors, reach out to a trusted friend or healthcare provider to help problem-solve.

Stress is an inevitable part of life, no matter what age we are. Please check in with yourself to see how you’re dealing with your stresses, identify how stress may be impacting your life, and take steps to take care of yourself. 

Marla LeFevre, RN

Director of Health Services