Panic attacks are intense episodes of fear or discomfort that can occur suddenly and peak within minutes. While often associated with younger adults, panic attacks can and do affect seniors. In fact, about 25% of Americans will experience a panic attack in their lifetime. However, they are frequently underdiagnosed in older populations due to overlapping symptoms with other medical or psychological conditions.
What Is a Panic Attack?
A panic attack involves sudden surges of overwhelming fear accompanied by physical and cognitive symptoms. In seniors, these symptoms may be mistaken for cardiac events, respiratory issues, or medication side effects.
Symptoms can include:
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Trembling or shaking
- Sweating
- Nausea or abdominal distress
- Fear of losing control or dying
Why Are Seniors Vulnerable to Panic?
Several factors increase the likelihood of panic attacks in older adults that are sometimes confused with geriatric aging.
- Health changes: Chronic illness, pain, or new diagnoses can be anxiety-provoking.
- Cognitive decline: Conditions like dementia may heighten fear or confusion.
- Loss and isolation: The death of a spouse, reduced mobility, or social disconnection can contribute to anxiety.
- Medications: Some drugs, particularly those affecting the central nervous system, may trigger or worsen panic symptoms.
Diagnosing Panic Attacks is Tricky in Seniors
Proper diagnosis often requires thorough evaluation by mental health providers with training in geriatric medicine.Panic attacks in seniors may go unrecognized due to:
- Atypical presentation: Seniors may focus more on physical symptoms than emotional ones.
- Comorbid conditions: Anxiety symptoms can be masked by or confused with heart disease, COPD, or neurological disorders.
- Stigma: Older adults may avoid discussing mental health due to generational attitudes.
Proper diagnosis often requires thorough evaluation by mental health providers with training in geriatric medicine.
Treatment and Management
Panic attacks are treatable at any age. A combination of holistic, therapeutic, and medical treatment can include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Effective in helping seniors to be self-aware of their behaviors and manage panic triggers.
- Anxiety Medication: SSRIs or SNRIs are generally preferred over benzodiazepines due to safety concerns in older adults.
- Lifestyle changes: Start an exercise regimen, get adequate sleep, and practice relaxation techniques that reduce anxiety.
- Community support: Maintaining connections with family and friends is vital. There are also a number of community groups like NAMI or Veterans Affairs (VA) that can provide emotional support.
When to Seek Help for Panic Attacks
If a senior experiences recurrent episode of intense fear with physical symptoms, especially if they impact daily life, a medical evaluation is essential. Rule out physical health causes first, then pursue mental health treatment as needed.
Last Word
Panic attacks are not just a young person’s issue—they can significantly affect seniors’ quality of life. Left untreated, episodes can lead to panic disorders such as agoraphobia. With proper detection and treatment, older adults can regain a sense of control and well-being.
About Celadon Recovery
Celadon is a comprehensive addiction and mental health treatment center located along the shores of the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers, Florida. With a full-continuum of care including detox, residential, and outpatient programs, we are committed to quality substance use and co-occurring disorder care. Call us today at 239-266-2141.
