Anxiety in older adults can be assessed in several ways. The first assessment is vital signs. An increased blood pressure, increased pulse, and increased respirations occur in the anxious state. The “fight or flight” response is initiated, accounting for the increased in vitals. Secondly, the nurse can observe preoccupying actions by the older adult. Anxious older adults may sometimes engage in actions to preoccupy themselves, as “anxious individuals often handle their clothing, jewelry, or utensils excessively, becoming intensively involved with a minor task” (Eliopoulos, 2014). Thirdly, anxiety can be manifested as somatic complaints. Older adults may use physical pain and symptoms when anxious. Careful assessment needs to be conducted to differentiate physical symptoms from anxiety-related manifestations. Fourthly, complaints of insomnia and fatigue are indicative of anxious states. Anxiety will sometimes disable an older adult from sleeping, or feeling fatigued as a result of not sleeping. Lastly, an older adult may show an “increased dependency” when they are anxious. In the anxious state, older adults may depend on caretakers and others for more things, for fear of being alone. (Eliopoulos, 2014)
There are several steps that can be taken to reduce and alleviate anxiety. Firstly, the nurse can “probe [the] history.” By making this initial assessment, the nurse can attempt to find the cause of the anxiety to better intervene. Recent changes or new stresses, caffeine consumption, over-the-counter medicines, nicotine, and alcohol are several stressors that contribute to anxiety. In probing the history, the older adult is also allowed to speak, further reducing anxiety. Secondly, anxious older adults need simplicity and stability, “with few unpredictable occurrences” (Eliopoulos, 2014). The nurse can promote this by adhering to routines, creating a structure, and also preparing the older adult for anticipated activities. Thirdly, to alleviate anxiety, environmental stimuli should be controlled. Soft lights, noise reduction, and the maintenance of a stable and comfortable room temperature contributes to a more relaxing environment. These actions prevent overstimulation of the senses, which can alleviate and relieve anxiety. (Eliopoulos, 2014).
Eliopoulos, C. (2014). Gerontological Nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
