She was unable to move – frozen and reliving a trauma from years ago. How could I help her? “Mary* sat at the kitchen table ignoring me knocking on her door, calling her name, and asking her to let me in, please. She was less than 10 feet away, had to hear me, but didn’t acknowledge my call. Little did I know that I’d stepped squarely on a trigger from a trauma she had experienced as a young woman. She was unable to move—frozen and reliving that traumatic experience years ago. How could I help her?” Our client, Mary's friend, isn’t the only one to ever face this situation, wanting to help but not knowing how. In fact, many people have experienced this, even though we always hope that no one will. What can seem like innocuous, mundane events might trigger an intense response in others, one that was developed due to a traumatic experience in their past. That question—how can I help?—is one every person who cares for others might ask, accompanied by a sense of uncertainty and helplessness. Understanding what is happening with trauma-based responses can help build better trauma-informed care. According to the National Institutes for Health, trauma refers to deeply distressing experiences that overwhelm a person’s ability to cope. For older adults, trauma can stem from a wide range of events—early life abuse, war, loss of loved ones, chronic illness, or institutionalization. Aging itself can trigger trauma responses, especially when accompanied by declining health, isolation, or loss of independence. Trauma doesn’t always fade with time. In fact, past trauma may resurface in later life due to cognitive changes, grief, or medical procedures that feel invasive or disempowering. Symptoms can include anxiety, depression, withdrawal, or even physical complaints without clear medical cause (as stated by the American Gerontological Society). Trauma-Informed Care is an approach that recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and seeks to create environments of safety, trust, and empowerment. For older adults, this means: Recognizing signs of trauma, and understanding how to respond with compassion, allows caregivers and family to ensure their client or loved one receives the care they need, in that moment. Trauma-informed Care isn’t just a technique—it’s a mindset that honors the dignity and resilience of older adults, helping them feel safe, heard, and valued. Taking a trauma-informed approach to elder care isn’t just smart—it’s the kind thing to do. When we understand where someone’s coming from and create spaces that feel safe, respectful, and supportive, we’re not just meeting their needs—we’re helping them feel seen and valued. Whether you’re a caregiver, a healthcare provider, or just someone who wants to make a difference, keeping this mindset can truly change lives for the better. “I stopped knocking on the door and sat on the step for a while wondering what to do. It wasn’t too long before Mary* quietly opened the door. I encouraged her to sit on the step with me. We sat without talking for a few minutes. She reached out to touch my hand. We smiled at each other and walked back into the house together. I poured some iced tea and we talked. It’s amazing how life experiences change us so much and how a safe environment can help us feel seen and valued.” *Name changed for privacy
What is Trauma?
How to Recognize and Implement Trauma Informed Care for Older Adults
Trauma Tidbits
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Next Steps
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