Anxiety is usually described as worry or fear about an upcoming event or the future in general. Used as a medical term, however, anxiety refers to an emotional state in which a person is so worried and tense that their health and ability to function can be affected. Anxiety disorders are quite common among older people. Many people with anxiety can combat their problem by learning new coping skills and relaxation techniques from trained therapists. Drug therapy for anxiety may involve the use of an anxiolytic or sedative agent, which helps them relax.
Antidepressant drugs are also beneficial in certain types of anxiety disorders.
When a person s anxiety is caused by another illness or medical treatment, treating that disorder or changing the therapy used can eliminate or alleviate the problem. Many seniors are reluctant to discuss an emotional or psychological problem. But you shouldn t hesitate to bring up your concerns and worries to your physician, because dealing with them appropriately can help preserve your health. Howell T. Chapter 29, Emotional and Behavioral Problems. In Duthie, Edmund H, ed.