This article provides an overview of anxiety disorders, how to identify them, and what measures can be implemented to address them since medical professionals are on the frontlines to help older adults with mental health issues. Anxiety Disorders. Anxiety disorders are of serious concern. While the state of anxiety—an experience of tension and apprehension—is an ordinary response to a threat or danger, excessive anxiety that causes distress or interferes with daily life is not a normal part of the aging process.