What could be causing irritability in a 70-year-old elderly person?
Nov 15, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Baohua
Introduction
In general, irritability in a 70-year-old elderly person may be caused by physiological decline, poor psychological adaptation, neurasthenia, anxiety disorder, insufficient cerebral blood supply, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, ensure the elderly person's diet is light and easy to digest, and avoid overeating.
Generally, irritability in a 70-year-old elderly person may be caused by physiological decline, poor psychological adaptation, neurasthenia, anxiety disorder, or insufficient cerebral blood supply. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Physiological decline: As the elderly experience reduced neural regulation and changes in hormone levels, they are prone to mood fluctuations. Family members should spend more time accompanying and communicating with them, helping the elderly develop hobbies such as gardening or playing chess to enrich daily life.
2. Poor psychological adaptation: Changes in lifestyle after retirement or the loss of relatives and friends can lead to feelings of loneliness and irritability. Encourage the elderly to participate in community senior activities, make friends of similar age, and gradually adapt to their new life situation.
3. Neurasthenia: Prolonged emotional stress can cause the nervous system to become easily excited and fatigued, manifesting as irritability and insomnia. Patients may take medications such as oryzanol tablets, vitamin B1 tablets, or diazepam tablets as prescribed, along with maintaining regular sleep patterns.
4. Anxiety disorder: Elderly individuals may develop persistent anxiety due to health concerns, accompanied by restlessness and mental agitation. Medications such as buspirone hydrochloride tablets, tandospirone citrate capsules, or lorazepam tablets should be taken as directed by a physician, combined with psychological counseling.
5. Insufficient cerebral blood supply: Cerebral vascular hardening leads to ischemia and hypoxia in the brain, affecting the emotional regulation center. Medications such as enteric-coated aspirin tablets, ginkgo leaf extract tablets, or clopidogrel hydrogen sulfate tablets may be used as prescribed. In severe cases, carotid endarterectomy may be performed to improve cerebral blood flow.
In daily life, ensure the elderly consume a light and easily digestible diet, avoiding overeating. Create a warm and harmonious family environment, preventing the elderly from bearing stress alone. Based on the individual’s physical condition, arrange appropriate mild exercises such as walking to enhance physical health.
