Simple squeeze or deep breath: new study eases endoscopy jitters for seniors

This study tested two simple, drug-free methods — squeezing a stress ball or practicing the 4-7-8 breathing technique — to help elderly patients feel less fearful and anxious before an upper GI endoscopy. 75 first-time patients were randomly assigned to one of the techniques, and researchers measured their fear, anxiety, and vital signs before and after. The goal was to see if these easy tools could make the procedure less stressful without medication.