Aging is a natural process that presents both rewards and challenges for people. Some adults may welcome their later years enthusiastically, awaiting retirement, grandchildren, or simply a new chapter of life. Others, however, may anticipate moving from middle age into their senior years with more apprehension.

Adjusting to this transition may be difficult for some adults as they face more health concerns. It may also be a challenge to mourn the death of family members, friends, their spouse or partner. Other older adults may also find it hard to attend to basic needs in the presence of diseases or illnesses common to retirement age, such as Alzheimer’s or depression.

Living as a Senior

 Aging is a continuing process that begins at birth and goes on throughout the life cycle. As you reach a certain time, you may look back on memories, reminisce on past accomplishments, and ponder on your life, in general. Many events can happen as you travel a lifespan; the journey can bring a range of feelings, such as happiness, pain, loneliness, guilt, anxieties, depression, and more. Adjusting to these changes that come with age may require new coping skills.

As you age, you may start seeing changes in your appearance and mobility. Various illnesses and pain can take a toll on your general wellbeing. Given that your body doesn’t possess the same capabilities as before, the possible side effects of medications, and perhaps a decline in cognitive ability; you may have the presence of a different set of emotional and interpersonal challenges.

Furthermore, you may feel you have less energy to keep on doing activities previously enjoyed, which may result in depression. The stress the aging process can sometimes contribute to feelings of uncertainty due to any of the following reasons:

• Death of a loved one – Death of a loved one is difficult for anyone, but it can be particularly difficult as a senior. This stage can emphasize what a struggle it is to navigate through life without people you used to be with.

• Age-related illnesses – The symptoms of age-related illnesses, such as visual, audio and verbal decline, reduced bodily strength, low appetite and energy level, sleep issues, sexual changes, and others can be tough. If you suffer from one or more of these symptoms you may become agitated and feel hurt.

• Cognitive and emotional health concerns – The challenges of physical changes and other life events can lead to depression. This can result in your being irritable, angry, withdrawn, and impaired in your daily functioning. Other health concerns in this area include anxiety, behavioral issues, alcohol and substance abuse, and memory loss.

 Happiness Can Be a Big Part of the Senior Years

Some studies show that seniors are more susceptible to experience depression and loneliness, leading to higher rates of unhappiness. There will be experiences that are painful, and many people never quite recover, which can contribute to uncertainty. Given the health and emotional challenges that are present during the senior years, it is important to develop a healthy attitude for the future.

While aging can be associated with certain illnesses and loss of independence, there is no need to fear it, rather learn to appreciate and embrace this wonderful time. Despite the physical and emotional effects that may be present for seniors, according to many surveys, they are finding happiness and fulfillment more than ever.

In truth, there are a lot of benefits to enjoy and be happy about becoming older, including the birth and growth of children and grandchildren, a productive career, gained wisdom, more personal time. Although these can at times be taken for granted, they are indeed a rich source of happiness that can only come with age.

So, do not let thoughts of getting older overpower you with worry. Seeking counseling can be a way of beginning a new chapter and experiencing a renewed vigor in life. With counseling, you will be helped to realize that aging is a lot more enjoyable than you may have realized.

In Pursuit of Happiness

For those in their senior years, it can be difficult to maintain a positive attitude consistently. One thing you can do is to ask yourself “what do I need to do to contribute to my happiness?” If you are demonstrating various symptoms that are troubling you, seeking therapy can help. Getting help from a counselor independently contracted with Carolina Counseling Services – Pinehurst, NC, may be just what you need to start feeling a renewed vigor again.

Know that there is a place where you can get individual counseling services in North Carolina. At Carolina Counseling Services – Pinehurst, NC there are independently contracted counselors and one of them may be the right fit professional for you.  Someone who can help you discover meaningful, rewarding, and lasting attitudes to build upon and enjoy life more and more. Call today to make an appointment!