Stress Awareness Month April 2025

April marks Stress Awareness Month, and Age UK Norfolk is highlighting the increasing pressures faced by older people in Norfolk, many of whom experience stress and anxiety due to complex financial, health, and personal challenges. For many older individuals, limited support networks can make life’s pressures feel even more overwhelming. Fortunately, Age UK Norfolk is here to help, providing crucial support and guidance to alleviate stress and improve wellbeing.

Stress and anxiety are well-documented contributors to declining mental health, particularly for older people. Research shows that chronic stress can lead to serious health issues, including depression, cardiovascular problems, and a weakened immune system. In fact, a study by the Mental Health Foundation revealed that 43% of people aged 55 and older report feeling stressed on a regular basis, with many of them facing difficulties in managing day-to-day challenges without support.

Age UK Norfolk has been at the forefront of providing help to vulnerable older people in the region, ensuring they have the support they need to manage stressful situations. In 2023-2024, the Charity provided nearly 3,000 hours of advocacy support across 1,400 home visits. Below are just a few examples of how the Charity made a difference in the lives of older residents in Norfolk:

Overcoming Financial Stress and Energy Worries

A client living alone with macular degeneration and poor mobility was struggling to manage household bills and energy costs. He was paying over £3,000 per month in energy bills due to the company using an estimated figure, because he was unable to access his energy meter due to his condition. The stress of worrying about his energy costs was so overwhelming, he was not using his heating. Age UK Norfolk intervened, helping the client to communicate with his energy provider, resulting in an £18,000 refund and compensation. This alleviated a huge amount of stress and allowed the client to live more comfortably.

Emotional Support and Practical Help for Housebound Clients

Age UK Norfolk supports many housebound individuals who face mental health challenges and social isolation. One example is an 82-year-old lady, who struggles with agoraphobia and mental health issues related to childhood trauma. Our client was also experiencing significant anxiety due to health concerns. Our volunteer team arranged GP appointments, provided transportation, and offered emotional support, greatly reducing her stress and helping her maintain her health.

The Impact of Stress on Older People

Chronic stress is particularly harmful to older adults, contributing to higher levels of anxiety, depression, and physical illness. According to the Mental Health Foundation, older adults are at an increased risk of stress due to factors like living alone, financial insecurity, health problems, and a lack of family support. The emotional and physical toll of stress can diminish the quality of life and hinder recovery from illness or injury.

If you are an older person facing challenges or know someone who could benefit from our support, please contact Age UK Norfolk at 0300 500 1217 / advice@ageuknorfolk.org.uk. We are here to help.

If you are interested in supporting the Charity’s work, there are a number of ways you can do so, which can include making a donation, hosting a fundraiser or becoming a volunteer.