A caregiver's guide to helping a loved one under hospice care with the symptoms of anxiety.
What are some Symptoms of Anxiety?
Fear or worrying
Trouble sleeping
Feeling unable to “catch your breath”
Trouble concentrating or focusing
Inability to relax or “get comfortable"
Fidgeting, frequently changing position, restlessness
What can be done to Manage Anxiety?
Treat other conditions that may be causing anxiety, such as pain
Slow, deep breathing
Keeping environment calm (consider limiting visitors)
Listening to preferred music
Provide reassurance and support
Sometimes medications, such as benzodiazepines or antidepressants, may be needed to manage anxiety
What are some of the Side Effects of Treating Anxiety?
Medications used to treat anxiety may have some of the following side effects. With continued use, many of these effects will decrease or may even go away.
Increased sleepiness or feeling “groggy”
Dizziness
Confusion
Impaired coordination
Headache
If Anxiety is not managed or medication side effects do not improve, notify the hospice team.
To view or download a hardcopy of the "Caregiver Care Guide: Anxiety," click the download button below.
