Coping with Hair Loss as an Older Adult

You may have been confident that it would never happen to you, but now it’s starting: you are losing your hair. While baldness is often looked down upon, it is one of the most common issues a person can experience. Roughly 70% of men lose hair as they age, and it isn’t just men who have to come to terms with this. Around 40% of women over 70 experience hair loss too.

Despite it being so common, coping with hair loss as an older adult can be quite a challenge. Remember that you are not alone in this experience and that there are things you can do to boost your confidence throughout it.

What are the different kinds of hair loss?

Hair loss doesn’t occur simply due to hitting a certain age. There are a number of factors that can cause individuals to experience thinning or hair loss, and they are broken down into three categories.

• Androgenetic alopecia (male/female pattern hair loss). The most common kind of hair loss. Hair thins over the top and/or on the sides of the head. This usually occurs from genetic or hormonal changes.
• Anagen effluvium. This form of hair loss is caused by certain medications that are toxic to the hair follicle (ex: chemotherapy).
• Telogen effluvium. This hair loss is temporary. It is usually reactive to environmental stressors, illnesses, surgery, or nutritional deficiencies.

When you start to experience hair loss, it is important you go speak with your doctor. While it could just be a natural part of your aging process, it could also be indicative of a more serious problem. Alternatively, if it is a result of certain medications, they may be able to prescribe you something else that doesn’t result in hair loss. Your doctor is always available to provide you with more options depending on your type of hair loss.

How to cope with hair loss as an older adult

No matter your age, losing your hair is upsetting. There may not be much you can do to combat the issue, however, there are things you can do to make the process a little easier.

Accept your feelings

Hair loss causes an array of complex feelings. Don’t try to push them aside. You are allowed to feel upset or frustrated, as they are two completely normal feelings to have. Accepting that you have these complex feelings is one of the first steps towards accepting the hair loss itself.

During this time, make a point to list all your good qualities. When you feel particularly down about your hair loss, focus on that. Talking to others who have experienced hair loss is also a great way to help yourself accept the situation. Join an online forum or even an in-person support group.

Try a new hairstyle

Certain hairstyles better conceal hair loss than others. You may think keeping your hair long is the best way to conceal loss, but that is actually not the case. The longer your hair is, the more it pulls on the roots, which can result in more severe hair loss. Shorter haircuts, on the other hand, make hair appear fuller.

Next time you go to a salon, talk to your stylist about what options are best for you. As professionals, they’ll be able to determine what haircut would be best for your face shape and hair needs.

Try concealing hair loss

Early on, your first instinct may be to conceal your hair loss. This is a fantastic way to help you get by as you adjust. These days, there are plenty of ways you can conceal your hair loss that help you move about your day-to-day life with confidence. A scarf or hat is a great way to get out of the house quickly with no fuss.

If your hair loss is a little more severe, the beauty industry has made leaps and bounds in hair extensions, hair pieces, and wigs. These products are easy to use and look totally natural.

Caring for your personal needs with home care

As you age, it may not be as easy to maintain a hair care regimen, even if doing so is important to you. With the support of an at-home caregiver, you can keep up with your personal hygiene. These professionals can assist with any of your personal care needs, from grooming, to bathing, to toileting.

At Home Care Powered by AUAF, our staff is dedicated to helping you age confidently in the comfort of your own home. We offer a wide range of home care services that allow you to remain independently at home for a while longer. For more information on our services, give us a call at 773-274-9262.