By Kelly Jones, MSN-Ed, RN, PHN, Program Director of GRHS’s Senior Life Solutions.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is most associated with combat veterans, but many experiences that can cause PTSD that may surprise you, such as:
- A fall that requires medical attention.
- Witnessing or experiencing a medical emergency.
- Experiencing a traumatic loss of a loved one.
- Being a long-term caregiver to a loved one.
- Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse earlier in life.
As people age, PTSD symptoms may develop or become more noticeable due to life changes such as retirement, vision or hearing loss, the passing of loved ones, having fewer social connections, and memory or thinking difficulties. Approximately 70-90% of adults over 65 have been exposed to at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. Experiencing trauma doesn’t always lead to PTSD, but symptoms may develop later in life.
PTSD symptoms include:
- Social Isolation
- Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
- Difficulty sleeping
- Nightmares/flashbacks
- Fatigue/muscle tension
- Joint and back pain
- Headaches and nausea
In 2024, Glacial Ridge Hospital had 291 ER visits where “fall” was listed as the primary reason for care. Although not all of these falls involved individuals 65 and older, the prevalence of serious falls among older adults highlights the impact that physical health has on mental well-being.
PTSD is often linked with other conditions, such as substance use disorders, major depression, post-concussive symptoms, and chronic pain. Recent research has explored a condition known as Late-Onset Stress Symptomology (LOSS), where everyday life changes, like retirement and reduced physical ability, can bring past trauma to the surface or worsen existing PTSD symptoms.
Many older adults may not realize that their current emotional or physical struggles may be connected to past traumatic experiences, which means PTSD often goes untreated.
PTSD doesn’t have to define an older adult’s life. If you or someone you love is struggling with symptoms of PTSD, don’t wait. Help is available. Glacial Ridge Health System’s Senior Life Solutions is an outpatient program designed to meet the unique needs of older adults. Anyone can make a referral to the program, including self-referrals, provider referrals, or community consultations. Call 320.331.2107 to learn more.