Anxiety often results from stress. Many women may experience anxiety when they reach age 50 because of the changes taking place in their lives. Generalized anxiety disorder, which causes excessive worry that can disrupt daily activities, is a common anxiety disorder in this population, according to the Merck Manual of Health and Aging. Many women avoid anxiety problems when they reach 50 because they feel more independent and free from earlier responsibilities.
Hormonal Changes
Menopause, the natural process of decreasing functioning of the ovaries, which control estrogen production, may cause anxiety and depression, according to Women's Health. Insomnia, mood swings, hot flashes and night sweats may also develop along with weight gain and bone density loss. Some women experience a decreased sex drive that may contribute to anxiety. Hot flashes and vaginal dryness may cause discomfort or irritation during sexual activities. Decreased hormones may also minimize libido. Hormone replacement therapy or lubricants can help a woman improve sexual enjoyment. Many women become more comfortable with sex after menopause because the danger of unintended pregnancy has passed. Adrenal imbalance, thyroid issues and digestive imbalance may also cause anxiety in women over 50.
Delayed Treatment
Mild to moderate anxiety symptoms often do not affect womens' ability to function, especially women who are high achievers and deny that they have chronic anxiety, according to Women to Women. Women may experience anxiety symptoms throughout their lives because of negative experiences in the past that include emotional, physical or sexual abuse, a parent's death, divorce and biological changes. Women may regard their anxiety as something completely normal and may have anxious feelings during minor problems in life. They become accustomed to living with anxiety. For this reason, many women may avoid therapy for mental health conditions they consider normal responses. Panic attacks, phobias or other anxiety disorders may originate from low-grade anxiety in women, however. Seeking treatment earlier in life to reduce anxiety symptoms could prevent severe anxiety disorders later.
Physical Ailments
As people age, the risk for illness may increase. Anxiety can result from many physical disorders, including hyperthyroidism, heart problems and memory difficulties, according to the Merck Manual of Health and Aging. Drugs that work effectively to treat medical conditions may have anxiety as a side effect. Women taking thyroid hormone replacement drugs, corticosteroids or other medications may experience anxiety from the drugs. People may drink coffee and other caffeinated drinks more often as they age for a perceived calming effect. Caffeine contributes to anxiety symptoms, however.
