Activities to Calm Anxious Seniors, Plus SE-OKC Resources
Many people struggle with anxiety, including seniors. Feelings of anxiety often accompany a sense of helplessness or lack of control. These emotions can gain new meaning for seniors who struggle to care for themselves or require the assistance of another to complete daily tasks.
Local resources, like senior centers and the activities they sponsor, can help seniors manage their anxiety and embrace a better quality of life. Below, we share a list that includes several local senior centers that offer activities designed to give seniors a creative outlet and connect them with a larger community of support. But first, let’s talk a little more about anxiety.
Methods to Tackle Anxiety in Seniors
Anxiety comes in various forms depending on how it manifests. For example, many people with anxiety suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), phobias, panic disorders, or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The source of the anxiety can stem from grief, trauma, extreme stress, mental illness, substance abuse, or neurodegenerative disorders.
For seniors, learning about their anxiety can help initiate the conversation about symptom management and getting help. The important thing to remember is that, unfortunately, anxiety is more common than seniors may realize. They’re not alone in their journey and not the first or last to struggle.
Beyond educating themselves and their families about anxiety, seniors can also begin to build and strengthen their support system and make a plan for a balanced life. Managing panic attacks or anxiety symptoms can feel like fighting a never-ending battle, but with each managed episode, the work becomes easier. Relying on your support system can also bolster your resolve and help you stay on track.
SE-OKC Resources & Activities Designed For Anxious Seniors
Finding local activities for seniors living with anxiety can be challenging. However, the following resources offer several classes or events that can help promote calm and invite seniors to connect with their community. Please contact the senior centers below directly to confirm class schedules and any additional specifics.
Brand Senior Center
Brand Senior Center in Moore offers several activities designed for anxious seniors. These include various exercise classes, art lessons, quilting, board games, and ceramics. Seniors can also participate in bingo games, wood carving instruction, and dominoes. Various classes held in the pool can also help seniors engage their muscles without risking injury.
Midwest City Senior Center
Gospel singing, bible study, and bridge are all possible at Midwest City Senior Center. Additional activities include knit and crochet classes, pinochle, yoga, music, and art activities. Seniors who’ve maintained their mobility can partake in line dancing or tai chi.
Shawnee Senior Recreation Center
The Shawnee Senior Recreation Center hosts a variety of classes to choose from. Seniors can engage in pickleball or stretch their muscles with group fitness classes. They also offer Billiards and Snooker in addition to puzzles, card playing groups and lunch is provided through Project Heart at the Community Center.
Choctaw Senior Citizens Center
All of the activities available at the Choctaw Senior Citizen Center are tailored to seniors. A new initiative starting in 2024 is dedicated to enhancing the lives of the seniors in the Choctaw area. Offsite events will help create a dynamic learning experience.
Visiting Angels of SE-OKC: Assisting Anxious Seniors Daily
If you’d like to learn more about anxiety and older adults, the National Council on Aging hosts several resources. Pairing seniors with a caring and compassionate personal caregiver can also strengthen their support system and assist when family is unavailable. Contact us at 405-259-9155 to discover how senior care services with Visiting Angels SE-OKC can make a positive impact in your life and the life of your aging loved one.