Contrary to what we’ve been led to believe, senior living isn’t always the way it’s portrayed in glossy sales brochures and magazine advertisements. Rather than being a carefree period of life spent on the golf course and traveling around the world, for many of today’s seniors those “golden years” are incredibly stressful times.

What causes seniors so much stress? Change is a huge trigger for stress and seniors definitely experience plenty of change. It can be in the form of declining health, death of friends and loved ones, moving, a bad financial investment, and the list goes on. Here are some other reasons why senior living is stressful.

The cost of living
For those who live on fixed incomes, and even for those who don’t, the ever increasing costs of living are a constant source of stress. From heating oil, to property taxes, to the cost of prescription medication and other everyday necessities, many seniors spend their days wondering how they’re going to make ends meet.

Caring for a loved one
While the death of a loved one is definitely a cause for stress, what is often even more stressful is having to care for a loved one who is no longer able to care for him or herself.

Moving
Whether it’s to a smaller home or in with the family of a son or daughter or to an assisted living facility or nursing home, moving from the place that’s been home for decades is particularly stressful especially when the move coincides with a loss of independence.

Caring for grandchildren
Many seniors find themselves once again playing the role of parents to their children’s children. Besides the increased financial demands, young children are needy and active and this puts tremendous stress on the elderly.

Dealing with stress
It’s you’re feeling stressed, there are healthier ways to deal with it than withdrawing or turning to alcohol. Here are a few of the ways seniors can more effectively deal with stress.

Daily exercise
Anything you do to get your heart beating a bit faster can be a great stress reliever. Walking, swimming, biking, shopping, dancing, and even being intimate are all excellent options. And don’t worry – you don’t have to set any performance records!

Pets
Studies show that older people who have pets are less stressed. Perhaps it’s because pets make great companions and they need constant care.

Prayer
For those who believe, prayer can be empowering.

To help keep stress under control
Make sure you’re eating right. A nutritionally-balanced diet will give your body the fuel it needs to get through each day. Don’t allow stress to build up either. Talk your troubles over with friends and family. You may not get a solution, but you’ll get a release. Volunteering can help you feel good about yourself and can give your life focus. When you work with others less fortunate than you, it can help put your life into perspective, too. And as often as possible, focus on the positive. Just try and find happiness in whatever you do.