Dr. Julie Erickson is a clinical psychologist, author and educator dedicated to reshaping our perspectives on aging. She is an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Applied Psychology & Human Development at the University of Toronto and the founder of a private practice in Toronto, Canada. She is the co-author of The Aging Well Workbook for Anxiety and Depression (New Harbinger Publications) and a sought-after speaker on best practices for working with older adults.
Article3 min read
Women Experience More Anxiety As They Grow Older. Why Is It So Hard To Talk About?
- Julie Erickson PhD
- Oct 1, 2025
- 3
Anxiety is often seen as a young person’s dilemma. As an older woman seeking anxiety relief, you might struggle to find information that feels relatable and applicable to your unique symptoms and concerns. The truth is that anyone at any age can struggle with anxiety, and effective treatment options are more accessible than you might think.
Why Is My Anxiety Getting Worse as I Get Older?
Whether you first experienced anxiety at a young age or have never been diagnosed with a mental health disorder, it’s entirely possible for new symptoms to appear as you age— sometimes more intensely than ever before.
Anxiety can always shift and evolve with the influence of life changes and uncertainty about the future. Common triggers that fuel anxiety in older women include:
- Health concerns: Worrying about illness, mobility, or cognitive decline
- Financial insecurity: Stressing over retirement savings and medical costs
- Grief and loneliness: Losing loved ones or battling social isolation
- Independence: Anxiety about driving, living alone, falling or injuring yourself, or needing assistance.
- Family stress: Caregiving for others, having a strained relationship with a family member, or worrying about being a burden for adult children and grandchildren if you need help.
Common Anxiety Symptoms in Older Adult Women
- Racing thoughts or excessive worry
- Difficulties disengaging from worry
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Restlessness, irritability, or muscle tension
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Unexplained shortness of breath or rapid heartbeat
- Avoiding social situations or activities you once enjoyed
- Feeling overwhelmed by routine tasks
Tip sheet:
Tips for Managing Anxiety About Aging
- Stay active: Regular movement like walking, stretching, or senior-friendly exercise classes helps keep you mentally and physically healthy.
- Challenge your fears: Ask yourself questions like, “Is this fear realistic?” or “What can I control in this situation?”
- Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness exercises can rapidly soothe an overactive mind.
- Get outside: Time spent in the natural world, whether that be gardening, bird watching, or listening to the ocean, has a positive impact on our mood and well-being.
- Stay connected: Schedule time to see friends, call family members to check in, and look for social groups to join in your area. Isolation only makes anxiety worse.
- Consider therapy: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a highly effective, scientifically backed anxiety treatment that can be practiced with a qualified professional.
- Talk to your doctor: If anxiety is affecting your daily life, your general practitioner can help explore treatment options and give referrals.
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