Causes of Headaches in Seniors and How to Help

Headaches in seniors can be particularly concerning because they may signal serious underlying health conditions such as medication side effects, blood pressure changes, or other age-related medical issues.

As we age, our bodies undergo changes that can lead to more frequent headaches, ranging from minor to severe. How do you know if your loved one’s headache is serious, especially if they have trouble communicating their symptoms?

Fortunately, most headaches in older adults can be prevented or treated with the right approach, but recognizing warning signs is crucial. Understanding what causes their headaches and knowing how to respond can help seniors feel better and enjoy a higher quality of life.Common Causes of Headaches in Seniors

Common Causes of Headaches in Seniors

When a headache isn’t a sign of a serious health problem, the pain can still disrupt your loved one’s quality of life. Here are a few common situations that can cause headaches in seniors:

Tension and Stress
Tension headaches are the most common type and feel like pressure at the forehead and temples. Tension headaches can arise due to:

• Anxiety, depression, or stress
• Extended screen or reading time without breaks
• Poor posture, such as looking down at a book or device
• Tense neck and shoulder muscles
• Vision problems

A professional caregiver from Visiting Angels can remind your loved one to take breaks from reading or watching TV throughout the day. We can also fill their day with different activities to prevent staying in one position too long.

Dehydration
Adults should drink six to nine cups of water a day. Unfortunately, seniors may not drink enough water, which can cause dehydration. Headaches, dizziness, and confusion can be signs of dehydration.

Visiting Angels caregivers can remind your loved one to sip regularly throughout the day and make healthy beverage choices. For example, we can swap sugary drinks for low-sugar options and moderate caffeine intake. We can also remind your senior to take a water bottle along when it’s hot out, as excessive heat can lead to dehydration.

Sleep, Nutrition, and Medication
Getting too little sleep due to health concerns such as sleep apnea, insomnia, or aches and pains can result in headaches. Talk with your senior and their doctor if you think poor sleep could be causing their headaches.

If your loved one gets migraine headaches, certain foods such as cheese, chocolate, alcohol, or caffeine can trigger headaches. Skipping meals or taking medication differently than prescribed can also result in a throbbing head.

Professional caregivers can remind seniors to take their medication on time and eat appropriate snacks and meals throughout the day. We can help with meal planning and preparation to help keep headaches at bay.

When to Visit the Doctor

Frequent or severe headaches can be a sign of an underlying health problem. If headaches come on suddenly or don’t fade away with changes in routine, talk with a doctor. Here are a few conditions that can cause headaches:

Sinus Infections
Dull, constant pain behind the eyes or cheekbones can indicate a sinus infection. While viral infections must run their course, bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics. Try these options to reduce pain at home:

• Lay a warm washcloth on painful areas
• Try over-the-counter decongestants after checking with a doctor
• Run a vaporizer that adds warm, moist air to the room

Dental Problems
Tension or pain in their jaw or cheeks can be a sign of nighttime teeth grinding, poorly fitting dentures, or a tooth or gum infection. These conditions can cause pain that spreads throughout the head and face. Talk with a dentist if you suspect your senior has a dental issue.

High Blood Pressure
If your loved one has dangerously high blood pressure and complains of a headache on both sides of their head, talk with a doctor right away. A sudden, severe headache can be a sign of a serious problem, such as a brain aneurysm or stroke.

Take your senior to the emergency room right away if they experience any of the BE FAST signs of a stroke:

• Balance: Sudden trouble walking or loss of balance
• Eyes: Vision changes or blurriness
• Facial drooping: One side of the face is numb or looks uneven
• Arm: Weakness or numbness in one arm
• Speech: New trouble speaking or slurred speech
• Time: Time lost is brain lost—seek care immediately

Home Care Can Help Your Senior Manage Headaches

A Visiting Angels professional caregiver can be an extra pair of eyes and ears to notice changes and provide gentle reminders about healthy habits in your senior’s care plan to help prevent headache pain.

Managing headaches effectively allows your loved one to stay active and vibrant while aging gracefully at home. Our non-medical personal care services, including meal preparation and medication reminders, can help your senior avoid common headache triggers and maintain their overall well-being at home.

Connect with your local Visiting Angels office about in-home care options today.