Managing dizziness caused by anxiety requires a multi-pronged approach.
It involves addressing the root cause of the anxiety and making lifestyle changes that promote overall well-being. Techniques such as relaxation techniques and mindfulness can help reduce anxiety levels. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can also play an important role in reducing dizziness.
For caregivers who are helping to manage the anxiety of an older loved one, finding ways to soothe them can be stressful.
Here are 10 ways to reduce anxiety to control dizziness that you can try when caring for an older family member:
1. Listen to music
Music is a powerful tool for regulating mood and stress. Listening to classical music can improve sleep quality and reduce depression, while playing familiar spiritual music can have a calming effect on anxiety.
2. Exercise
Scientists have found that just five minutes of aerobic exercise can start to stimulate anti-anxiety effects. So whether it’s walking, dancing to music, or simply stretching, physical activity is an effective tool for reducing anxiety.
3. Go for a walk outdoors
When older adults are feeling anxious, get outside and get some fresh air. If older adults spend time in green outdoor areas, such as a grassy park or by a koi pond, they will feel more refreshed, restored, and mentally connected. Even relatively mundane experiences, like hearing the buzz of bees or the sound of running water, can have a huge impact on overall health.
4. Share Something Familiar
Sharing favorite books or movies from the past can help ease anxiety, and reading favorite children’s books or poems is especially helpful.
5. Spend time with a pet
Pets can lower blood pressure and heart rate, reduce the stress hormone cortisol, and increase the body’s natural mood enhancer, serotonin, in their owners. Even without a pet of their own, studies have shown the therapeutic effects of interacting with animals on older adults.
6. Take a walk
Whether it’s a change of scenery or the soothing sound of an engine, a walk can have a calming effect on older adults who feel anxious.
7. Provide a safety item
A special item can help older adults reduce anxiety. For example, a special item could be a doll that your grandparent can hold and remind them of the grandchildren they cared for, or for someone else, a special item could be a warm blanket.
8. Share memories
Recalling memories of happy times, whether it’s looking through old greeting cards, letters, or photo albums, can have a calming effect on older adults. Talking about positive childhood memories can also be helpful.
9. Encourage physical contact
Human touch is a powerful thing. Remember that a hug, a hand massage, or brushing your loved one’s hair can go a long way. As we all continue to navigate the global pandemic, make sure you do it safely and follow local public health guidelines.
10. Talk
The type of conversation can vary and will depend on the level of anxiety at hand. It may be light-hearted conversation or a few jokes to help them smile. Or, it may be a more direct discussion that tells the truth, provides information. Regardless of the conversation, the goal is to make the older person feel safe, loved, and reassured that they have nothing to worry about.
