Due to the strict precautions many geriatric adults are being recommended to take by the CDC, for many patients this is having a severe impact on their overall mental health. We need to ensure that the mental health needs of the elderly are met to prevent further distress, all while doing so from a safe distance. This article does a great job discussing how “anxiety attacks in older people are becoming contagious”. Anxiety symptoms can manifest into chest pains, shortness of breath, incontinence issues, fatigue, and much more. The unfortunate truth is that some of the symptoms of anxiety may resemble COVID-19 symptoms as discussed in the media, which as you can imagine leads into a nasty cycle of further anxiety and increased symptoms. Recommendations for the elderly to better manage COVID-19 related anxiety attacks discussed in this article are:
- Establish structure and routine
- Remain cognitively active
- Exercise
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Practice meditation
- Stop or manage drinking
- Get help from your community
By: Maggie Vricos
Resource: https://www.todaysgeriatricmedicine.com/news/ex_031820.shtml
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