1. Eat a well-balanced diet.

Consider including multivitamin supplements.

2. Limit alcohol and caffeinated drinks such as coffee, teas or sodas.

3. Get adequate rest / sleep.

4. Trim a hectic schedule to its most essential items.

Try to limit activities that are not relaxing.

5. Keep track of events or things that cause more anxiety or less anxiety.

6. Take time out for yourself every day.

Even 20 minutes of relaxation can decrease your anxiety.

7. Keep a healthy and active lifestyle. Exercise regularly.

8. Effective treatment starts with early detection

You can take a simple screening directly on your mobile phone to test for symptoms of depression, using the SingHealth Health Buddy app (click here to learn more about Health Buddy's "Senior Wellness" function). There, you will also find simple strategies to cope with early symptoms.

• Medication

• Talking therapy.

So, talk to your doctor about your concerns and seek help early.

The risk factors of late-life anxiety are a complex combination of both biological and environmental factors.

a) Biological risk factors

• Women are twice as likely as men to have risk factors.

• A family history of mental illness (anxiety/mood disorders) predisposes one to develop anxiety/mood disorders.

• People with chronic physical illnesses have a greater risk of developing anxiety disorder. For example, excessive fear of falling leads to an individual's avoidance of activities that they remain capable of performing.

b) Environmental risk factors

• Loneliness or lack of social support is one of the main environmental factors.

• Another factor is low socioeconomic status or recent stressful life events such as the loss of loved ones.

• Having to care for sick family member also increases the risk of developing anxiety.

• In the current climate, the response to the COVID-19 pandemic predispose one to mental illnesses.

Anxiety can present in both physical and emotional symptoms. People may not be aware that physical symptoms are linked to anxiety.

Emotional symptoms of anxiety include:

• Excessive and irrational worrying, even when there are no signs of trouble

• Inability to relax

• Hard time concentrating, mind going blank

• Tense of jumpy feelings

• Irritability or restlessness

• Problems sleeping

Physical symptoms may include:

• Headaches

• Fatigue

• Trembling

• Racing heart

• Sweating

• Numbness/tingling sensation

• Muscle tension

• Light-headedness

• Shortness of breath

• Gastrointestinal discomfort (e.g. diarrhea, nausea, heartburn)

Ref: J22

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Dear Seniors, Don't Neglect Protein and Why

5 Easy Ways Seniors Can Stay Healthy

7 Ways to Keep Your Mind Sharp

4 Top Exercises for Seniors