Psoriasis is an uncomfortable disease to live with. Not only does it cause itching, the appearance of the psoriasis patches can be embarrassing for some people. This can cause older adults with psoriasis to feel stressed. Unfortunately, when they feel stressed, it can trigger a psoriasis flare up. A flare up is a period in which the symptoms of the disease worsen.
Why Does Stress Trigger Psoriasis Flare Ups?
What causes psoriasis isn’t well understood yet, but doctors do know it is an autoimmune disorder. This means the immune system attacks healthy tissues in error. Stress is associated with a negative impact on the body’s immune system, so the link between stress and psoriasis may have something to do with the immune system. The body responds to injuries and illness by producing certain chemicals that promote inflammation to help heal the body. An autoimmune disorder causes the immune system to overreact. The immune system responds to stress in the same manner as though it were an illness.
What Can Be Done About Stress?
Because stress is a powerful trigger, it’s important that seniors with psoriasis do everything they can to reduce stress in their lives. There are plenty of strategies that can alleviate some of your aging relative’s stress, such as:
- Exercise: When people exercise, their bodies release endorphins. Endorphins are a “feel good” chemical that boost mood and increase energy. Exercising regularly can relieve stress and has been associated with having a lesser chance of developing psoriasis.
- Take Control: When seniors take an active role in the treatment of psoriasis, it can give them a feeling of power over the condition, lessening their stress. In addition, controlling the condition can reduce the symptoms, which can, in turn, reduce stress.
- Emotional Support: Seeking out the support of family and friends can reduce stress. Talking to others about how they are affected by psoriasis can be helpful. If they are not comfortable talking to the people in their lives, a support group for people with chronic illnesses is an excellent place for them to vent their feelings.
- Meditation or Yoga: Meditation and yoga are both recommended as techniques that can reduce everyday stress.
Elderly care can also help seniors to keep stress levels lower. Elderly care providers can be a source of emotional support by listening to the senior’s feelings and concerns. Elderly care providers can also help them to keep the condition under control by reminding them to use medications and assisting them in following the doctor’s recommended treatment plan. Elderly care providers can also drive older adults to a gym to exercise or to a yoga class.
Sources
https://www.webmd.com/women/psoriasis-women-19/coping-with-psoriasis
https://www.psoriasis.org/life-with-psoriasis/stress
https://www.everydayhealth.com/psoriasis/living-with/the-psoriasis-stress-connection/
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE IS CONSIDERING ELDERLY CARE IN LITCHFIELD PARK, AZ, CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE. CALL TODAY (623) 748-3301.