Stress Awareness Month 2025: Promoting Well-being in Later Life

 

April is Stress Awareness Month, a national campaign dedicated to raising awareness of how stress affects our mental and physical well-being.

While stress is often associated with busy working lives, older adults can be especially vulnerable to its effects. Health issues, life changes or the loss of independence can all lead to feelings of anxiety, isolation or overwhelm.

At Trinity Homecare, we recognise the importance of supporting emotional well-being as much as physical health. In honour of Stress Awareness Month, we’re sharing practical ways to reduce stress and help older people feel more supported and confident at home.

Understanding stress in later life

Stress doesn’t only affect younger or working-age people. In fact, older adults can experience high levels of stress, often without anyone noticing. While they may not always use the word “stress,” the effects can be just as real and just as serious.

As we age, our ability to manage stress may change. The body’s natural stress response can become less effective, and physical health conditions can make it harder to bounce back from emotional strain. Long-term stress has been linked to problems such as high blood pressure, poor sleep, low mood, memory issues and weakened immunity.

Older adults may also find it more difficult to speak up about how they’re feeling. Some worry about being a burden, while others may simply feel that stress is something they should just put up with.

If someone you love seems more withdrawn, irritable or forgetful, it could be a sign of stress — not just ageing.

Common causes of stress in older people

There are many reasons why stress and anxiety can affect people more in later life. Changes in health, routine or independence can all create feelings of uncertainty or worry. Some causes are short term, while others can build slowly over time.

Some of the most common triggers of stress in older adults include:

●      Health problems or new diagnoses

●      Loss of independence or mobility

●      Bereavement and loneliness

●      Changes in routine or environment

●      Financial concerns or future planning

Stress doesn’t always have a clear cause. Simply feeling overwhelmed by small changes or ongoing challenges can be enough to affect well-being.

Spotting the signs: how stress may show up

Stress can affect people in many different ways, and it doesn’t always look the way you might expect. In older adults, the signs of stress are often mistaken for other issues like tiredness, forgetfulness or simply part of getting older.

Being aware of the signs means you can step in early, offer support and avoid stress building up over time.

●      Changes in sleep or appetite

●      Mood swings or irritability

●      Forgetfulness or confusion

●      Avoiding usual activities

●      Physical symptoms

If you’ve noticed a change in someone’s behaviour, routine or energy, it’s always worth checking in. A simple conversation can open the door to the support they need.

Practical ways to reduce stress at home

Creating a calm and supportive home environment can make a real difference to someone who is feeling stressed. Small changes to daily life can help reduce anxiety, improve well-being and restore a sense of control.

Here are some simple ways to ease stress at home:

Stick to a steady routine

A consistent daily routine provides structure and stability, which can be especially helpful for someone who feels anxious or unsettled. Regular times for waking, eating, resting and activities help reduce confusion and make the day feel more manageable. Keeping things predictable gives a sense of control, which is key when life feels uncertain.

Encourage gentle movement and fresh air

Light physical activity helps to release tension, boost mood and improve sleep. Whether it’s a short walk, some simple chair exercises or time spent in the garden, gentle movement can have both physical and emotional benefits. Even opening a window to feel fresh air can offer a calming moment during the day.

Try our guide on fitness for the elderly for more ideas on how you incorporate gentle movement into everyday activities.

Create a calm environment

A peaceful, tidy space can help reduce stress triggers. Think soft lighting, clear surfaces and minimal background noise. Familiar items like family photos, favourite blankets or a much-loved armchair can offer comfort and a sense of home. Reducing clutter and chaos supports a sense of calm and safety.

Stay socially connected

Loneliness is one of the biggest causes of stress in later life. Regular, meaningful interactions, whether it’s a friendly chat, a visit from a carer or a call with a loved one, can help someone feel valued and supported. Social connection also gives purpose to the day and can help lift low mood.

Introduce calming activities

Gentle, familiar activities such as reading, puzzles, knitting, music or listening to the radio can help focus the mind and provide a welcome distraction from worry. Mindful moments, like making a cup of tea or potting a plant, can also help slow things down and restore calm. Our guide on activities for depression  explores many calming activities you can try.

When to seek professional help

While occasional stress is a normal part of life, ongoing anxiety or emotional distress should never be ignored — especially in later life. If stress begins to affect daily routines, mood or overall well-being, it may be time to seek professional support.

A GP or mental health specialist can help assess what’s going on and recommend the right treatment. This might include talking therapies, medication or a combination of both, depending on the person’s needs and preferences.

Professional carers also play a valuable role. With gentle routines, companionship and emotional reassurance, trained carers can help reduce stress, restore confidence and bring a sense of calm to everyday life.

If something feels off — even if you can’t quite explain it — it’s always best to reach out early. Support is available, and no one has to face stress alone.

How Trinity Homecare can help

Trinity Homecare is a fully managed care agency with an ‘Outstanding’ CQC rating, placing Trinity amongst the top 4% of all nationwide care companies in England. With this in mind, you can rest assured that your loved one will receive the highest standard of care and specialist support.

Call us now on 0207 183 4884 in confidence for a free no obligation quotation. If enquiring outside of our opening hours, please complete our online form and we will contact you the next day.