A lot of things come with growing older.
You’ve accumulated years of wisdom and you’re able to take the time to relax in retirement, enjoying the fruits of your years of labor.
The flip side of the aging coin is some anxiety. It’s inevitable that you’ll have concerns.
Let’s take a look at some of the common worries seniors face.
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1. Loneliness
Relationships can change as you age.
You may lose your friends, spouse or other family members to illness or their own aging process.
It’s also common to lose the ability to travel, which makes seeing far-away friends difficult.
There are ways to combat this issue, though.
Fill your calendar with weekly dates with the people you enjoy who are close to you. Having plans on the books every week gives you something fun to look forward to.
If you don’t have friends or family close by, find a social group to join, like a book club, knitting circle or another activity that meets regularly.
2. Loss of independence
One of the common worries seniors face is eventually having to rely on other people.
The idea of someone else making decisions for you and having control over your life.
There’s also a loss of dignity that comes with losing a sense of independence – especially if you need help with everyday tasks like bathing yourself, getting dressed or you can no longer drive.
Having conversations with your family members about how you’re feeling and your fears can help alleviate some of the stress.
The opportunity to express your wishes for the future to someone you trust is reassuring.
3. Financial burdens
Lack of money can be one of the biggest worries you face as you grow older.
Many seniors have prescription medications that can be costly, as well as other health-related bills.
One of the ways to ease a scary financial situation is to have the right Medicare plan.
Talk to an insurance expert who can help you find the plan that’s suited to your unique needs.
4. Deteriorating health
A physical decline is to be expected when you reach a certain stage of life.
Thinking about gradually losing your physical abilities is frightening.
Taking care of yourself to the best of your ability can help you to feel in control and can actually slow the aging process in many situations.
Here are some steps you can take to stay as healthy as you can, for as long as you can.
- Stay active.
- Eat well.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Stay up-to-date on immunizations and health screenings.
- Manage stress with relaxation techniques like yoga (modified to your abilities) and breathing exercises.
5. Death of a spouse
A common worry that seniors face that trumps all others is the death of your spouse.
There’s nothing quite like the pain of losing your beloved companion.
It’s hard to even imagine life without that person.
Though there’s no cure-all for that kind of grief, surrounding yourself with loving friends and family and having a support system already in place before that time may come can at least give you a measure of comfort.
Medicare alleviates some of the common worries seniors face
Overall, the right Medicare plan can give you peace of mind in many of these areas.
For example, a Silver Sneakers program can help you stay fit and active, as well as give you a group of peers to hang out with on a regular basis.
Finding a plan that adequately covers your medical needs, like dental and vision care and prescriptions will lower your stress levels.
To find the best Medicare plan for you, talk with an independent insurance expert who has the skills and knowledge to pinpoint exactly what you need.
Which of these worries are at the top of your mind as you get older?
Medicare has neither reviewed nor endorsed this information.