Embodied Conversational Agents (ECAs) are increasingly employed to enhance the emotional well-being of middle-aged and older adults by providing therapeutic and supportive interactions. This study explores the role of empathetic language and emotional facial expressions in alleviating emotional distress among this demographic. A total of 220 participants aged 50 and above were recruited to evaluate the effects of ECAs on emotional relief, user satisfaction, and psychological well-being. Findings reveal that while empathetic language and facial expressions positively influence user satisfaction and engagement, their standalone impact on reducing emotional distress is limited. The results underscore the need for holistic integration of emotional cues, emphasizing natural and synchronized facial expressions, seamless alignment of visual and auditory elements, and personalized interactions. These advancements are crucial for addressing the unique emotional needs of middle-aged and older users and enhancing the overall effectiveness of ECAs in fostering meaningful companionship and emotional support.