A survey by GeneSight Mental Health Monitor found that 77% of people in the US admit to adopting unhealthy behaviors to cope with mental health problems.
Coping with life changes can be especially hard for seniors. Many face multiple challenges at once — grief, chronic illness, and memory decline. Seniors who live alone are especially at risk of developing unhealthy coping skills.
One effective way to support your aging parent is to move them to TerraBella Newton. Located in Newton, NC, we offer personalized assisted living with top-quality care, services, and amenities.
But beyond relocation, you also need to understand how to help. Explore various signs of poor coping and how you can make a difference.
Social Withdrawal
Your older parent may begin pulling away from family and friends without saying why. You might notice them skipping gatherings, avoiding phone calls, or spending long hours alone. Often, this happens when they feel overwhelmed, depressed, or disconnected.
Over time, social withdrawal can lead to:
- Loneliness
- Increased risk of depression
- Faster cognitive decline
- Low self-esteem
- Physical health issues
Moving seniors to TerraBella Newton can provide support. Our community offers many socialization opportunities, from group events to shared dining.
Your older parent can interact with other seniors daily. These healthy connections enhance senior emotional wellness and help them develop more positive ways to cope with life’s changes.
Increased Irritability or Mood Swings
You might notice your older parent snapping more or getting upset easily. Mood swings like these may indicate stress or deeper emotional struggles. Many older adults feel frustrated by changes in their bodies or fear losing control of their lives.
Instead of asking for help, they may withdraw or become angry. These changes can cause tension in your relationship and make your older parent feel even more alone. One way to help is by staying calm and listening without judgment.
Keep routines simple and predictable. Fun, low-stress activities can also help. Understanding the link between aging and mental health is key to offering the right support.
Changes in Eating Habits
Some seniors may begin skipping meals or show little interest in food, while others may overeat to feel better. These habits can quietly lead to:
- Weight loss or gain
- Poor nutrition
- Low energy levels
- Weakened immune system
- Increased risk of illness
Living alone can hinder maintaining a healthy eating routine. At TerraBella Newton, seniors enjoy fresh, chef-prepared meals served three times a day in a warm, social setting.
Eating with others can make meals more enjoyable and uplifting. It can help your parent avoid using food as an emotional escape and support better daily wellness.
Substance Misuse
Sometimes, older adults use alcohol or take extra medications to deal with stress, pain, or loneliness. Your parent might start drinking more “to relax” or using pills in ways not recommended.
These habits can be hard to spot at first, but can cause serious health problems over time. Substance misuse can harm the following:
- Liver
- Heart
- Memory
- Balance
- Mood
- Judgment
These effects raise the risk of falls, confusion, and hospital visits. You can help by speaking gently about your concerns and offering healthy outlets for stress. Focus on healthy stress management in seniors, such as light exercise, hobbies, or support groups.
Poor Personal Hygiene
Neglecting personal hygiene is often a sign that your older parent feels overwhelmed. It’s not about being lazy. Many times, it connects to depression, confusion, or low energy.
It may even be a quiet way of asking for help. Poor hygiene can lead to infections, low self-confidence, and pulling away from others.
Your loved one may:
- Stop showering
- Wear dirty clothes
- Ignore grooming
- Avoid brushing their teeth
- Refuse help with dressing
At TerraBella Newton, we offer respectful help with bathing, grooming, and getting dressed. Our kind caregivers provide privacy and support. Good hygiene routines help rebuild confidence and replace harmful coping behaviors to avoid.
Sleep Problems
Your older parent might struggle with:
- Falling asleep
- Staying asleep
- Waking up too early
- Feeling tired after sleeping
- Nighttime confusion or restlessness
Sleep problems are common in older adults and often worsen with stress, anxiety, or changes in routine. Poor sleep affects memory, mood, and overall health.
You can help by creating calming bedtime routines, limiting screen time, and keeping their sleep environment quiet and comfortable. In some cases, memory care guidance may be needed to manage sleep issues linked to confusion or cognitive decline.
Frequent Complaints About Health
Your older parent may often talk about aches, fatigue, or stomach problems without any clear medical reason. These physical complaints can be signs of emotional stress rather than illness. Many seniors express emotional pain through their bodies because it feels safer than sharing feelings.
Instead of dismissing these concerns, listen with patience and care. Help them stay active, attend regular checkups, and encourage open conversations about how they feel. Addressing both physical and emotional needs plays a key role in supporting senior emotional wellness.
Loss of Interest in Activities
Has your older parent stopped doing things they once loved, like gardening, reading, or watching their favorite shows? A sudden loss of interest, known as anhedonia, is often tied to depression or emotional fatigue. Many seniors assume joy has passed them by or no longer feel connected to daily pleasures.
At TerraBella Newton, we offer a wide range of daily programs, such as:
- Arts and crafts
- Music and games
- Gentle fitness classes
- Group outings
- Live entertainment
These activities help your older parent stay engaged. They also lift their mood and bring structure to their day. Staying active and connected reduces stress and supports healthier ways of coping with emotional challenges.
Unhealthy Coping Skills in Seniors: Key Signs and Support Solutions
Unhealthy coping skills can quietly affect your older parent’s emotional and physical well-being. Behaviors like isolation, mood swings, or substance use often develop when seniors feel unsupported. Recognizing these signs early allows you to step in with care and guidance.
At TerraBella Newton, we blend personalized care with engaging activities and social connections. Our Senior Lifestyle Counselor, Suzanne Dyson, brings nearly two decades of experience in assisted living.
She’s here to help guide your loved one with care. Contact us today and let’s support your loved one’s journey toward healthier living.
