Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder that causes intense fear of situations where escape might be difficult or help may not be available. Unlike claustrophobia, it does not only happen in tight spaces. Agoraphobia can strike when you are in a crowd, standing in line or sitting in a restaurant. It is actually one of the most common phobias in elderly adults, and it often goes undiagnosed because the symptoms overlap with other age-related health concerns.
What Causes Agoraphobia in Older Adults?
Agoraphobia is considered an anxiety disorder. It often occurs in people with panic disorders, but that is not always the case. Agoraphobia in older adults can develop after a traumatic event and is not always associated with a co-occurring psychological disorder. What may feel like a minor incident to a younger person can be deeply traumatic for a senior.
When we try to understand older adults from their perspective, we recognize that it is common for elderly adults to begin isolating themselves. Outings that used to be enjoyable and simple become complicated and overwhelming. The simple act of going shopping can bring new risks and obstacles that younger adults never consider. Many seniors have to give up their drivers licenses, are fearful of falling and deal with incontinence issues that all contribute to isolative behavior.
There are many reasons why seniors do not want to leave their homes, apartments or Assisted Living Facilities. Agoraphobia in older adults can play a major role in an elderly person’s self-imposed isolation.
As you get older, your mobility may become compromised. It makes sense that you would be anxious about being trapped in a certain situation if you were unable to move around freely, independently or quickly. Canes, walkers and wheelchairs change a person’s perspective of their mobility. Traveling, going to a concert or dining at a busy restaurant could trigger panic.
Although the causes of agoraphobia are different for everyone, experts say that depression, other phobias, other types of anxiety disorders, a history of abuse, substance abuse disorders, post-traumatic stress, and genetics may play a role in the development of the condition. Seniors who experience prolonged isolation and loneliness may also be at higher risk.
If you have experienced a trauma, such as a fall or a dangerous situation, in a public place, you will likely want to avoid that place in the future.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Agoraphobia in Seniors
Some of the physical symptoms that come up when you are experiencing agoraphobia include:
- Chest pain or tightness
- Racing pulse or heart palpitations
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Shaking or trembling
- Trouble catching your breath
- Sweating or chills
- Nausea or stomach distress
- Numbness or tingling
These physical symptoms can be terrifying. They can make a person feel out of control. Experiencing symptoms such as these can make you fearful of putting yourself in stressful situations in the future. The cycle builds on itself, leaving you anxious and isolated.
How Is Agoraphobia Diagnosed?
To be diagnosed with agoraphobia, you would have to experience powerful anxiety in at least two of the following circumstances:
- Using public transportation
- Being in open spaces
- Being in tight or enclosed spaces, such as a vehicle
- Being in a crowd or standing in line
- Being outside of your home alone
Coping Skills and Treatment for Agoraphobia in Seniors
Managing agoraphobia can feel overwhelming, but effective treatments exist. If you are afraid to leave the house, you will need to work through some of your fears with professional support in order to manage the condition.
Therapy and Counseling
One of the first steps to learning agoraphobia coping skills is to educate yourself. A mental health professional can give you more information about the condition and help you become aware of your symptoms and triggers. When you know what sparks your symptoms, you can come up with a plan to manage the issue.
Psychotherapy is often used to treat individuals with agoraphobia. During therapy, you will likely talk about tolerating anxiety symptoms and taking measures to alleviate them.
When you learn how to manage your anxiety, you will be able to stay in stressful situations until the panic subsides. Exposure therapy involves gradually putting yourself in the situation that causes you fear. Eventually, you may develop more confidence as you realize that you are safe.
You will also discuss your fears during therapy. Although bringing your worries out into the open can make you feel vulnerable, a good therapist will hear your concerns. You may realize that there are in fact rational and real ways to combat limiting thoughts.
Calming Techniques and Self-Care
Learning calming skills can also help you manage your symptoms. Meditation, yoga, breathing exercises and visualization can help you stay steady when you feel panic coming on. Clients learn the importance of practicing these methods when they are not feeling anxious so they are comfortable and able to use them in a triggering situation. Developing strong coping skills is an important part of long-term agoraphobia management.
Taking care of physical health can also contribute to reducing general anxiety. Regular exercise, eating healthfully and avoiding alcohol and caffeine can boost the mood-enhancing chemicals that make you feel balanced. Getting enough sleep is especially important for seniors. Our therapists can help clients identify challenges to taking care of physical health and work on developing realistic solutions to promote health and well-being.
Medication Options
There are some medications specifically intended to relieve symptoms of anxiety. They can also help control panic attacks. Our therapists at Blue Moon Senior Counseling do not prescribe medications but we encourage clients to discuss their anxiety challenges with their primary physicians and psychiatrists (if they are being seen) to explore the specific pros and cons of medication to help with anxiety and agoraphobia.
Why Telehealth Therapy Works for Seniors with Agoraphobia
One of the biggest challenges when dealing with agoraphobia in elderly adults is convincing them to get treatment. How can someone who is afraid to leave the house go to therapy? At Blue Moon Senior Counseling, we solve this problem through telehealth. Our licensed therapists provide counseling via phone or video, so you can receive treatment from the comfort and safety of your own home.
Our telehealth services are covered by Medicare, meaning most seniors 65 and older pay nothing out of pocket. No referral is needed to get started. Whether you are dealing with agoraphobia on its own or alongside other conditions like grief, PTSD or chronic stress, our therapists specialize in helping older adults work through these challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions About Agoraphobia in Older Adults
What is the difference between agoraphobia and social anxiety?
Agoraphobia involves fear of situations where escape is difficult, such as crowded stores or public transportation. Social anxiety is a fear of being judged or embarrassed in social settings. Both conditions can lead to avoidance and isolation, but they are triggered by different concerns. Many seniors experience symptoms of both conditions.
Can agoraphobia develop later in life?
Yes. Agoraphobia can develop at any age. In older adults, it often begins after a fall, a health scare or the loss of a spouse. Changes in mobility, hearing or vision can also make previously comfortable situations feel threatening, which may trigger agoraphobic responses.
Does Medicare cover therapy for agoraphobia?
Yes. Medicare Part B covers outpatient mental health services, including therapy for agoraphobia. At Blue Moon Senior Counseling, most of our clients pay nothing out of pocket for their telehealth counseling sessions. No doctor referral is required to begin services.
Contact Us Today or Call (630) 896-7160
