Understanding PTSD in Older Adults
Photo source: openverse, Mavera zehra Çoşkun
Post-traumatic stress disorder, often called PTSD, is usually linked with younger soldiers or recent disasters. In reality, it can affect people at any age, including those in their seventies, eighties and beyond. For many older Kiwis, understanding PTSD is the first step towards feeling better.
What Is PTSD?
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after someone lives through or witnesses a frightening or life-threatening event. For older adults, this might be military service, a serious accident, the Canterbury earthquakes, a violent crime, childhood abuse, or the sudden loss of a loved one.
Why It Can Appear Later in Life
Some people carry traumatic memories for decades without obvious problems. Retirement, losing a partner, illness or moving into care can bring quiet time and new stress, and old memories may resurface. Health concerns and reduced independence can also make a person feel less in control, which may stir up past fears.
Getting Support in New Zealand
The good news is that PTSD is treatable at any age. Trauma-focused counselling can help people process painful memories safely, and some people also benefit from medication prescribed by their doctor. A good first step is to see your GP, who can check your overall health and refer you to specialist services. Veterans can contact Veterans’ Affairs New Zealand for support. If you need to talk to someone right now, you can call or text 1737 for free at any time, day or night, to speak with a trained counsellor.
How Family and Friends Can Help
Listen without judgement and avoid pushing someone to talk before they are ready. Gently encourage them to seek professional help, and offer to go along to appointments. Regular routines, light exercise, time outdoors and connecting with community groups such as Age Concern can all support recovery.
Living with PTSD is not a sign of weakness, and it is never too late to ask for help. With the right support, many older New Zealanders find relief, regain their confidence and enjoy their later years with greater peace of mind.
