Did you know that as many as 20% of older adults have mental health problems unrelated to aging? Those issues may include psychiatric disorders, prolonged grief, and severe anxiety. Diagnosing and maintaining senior behavioral health is key to aging with grace.
In Redding, CA, seniors benefit from a close-knit community and close access to nature. However, these aren't always enough to resolve mental health issues on their own. In many cases, they need professional support.
Here are some mental health signs to watch for and how to provide the support seniors need.
The first step to treating emotional problems or issues is recognizing them.
Aging brings many emotional and psychological challenges that affect how seniors perceive themselves and interact with others. Life transitions like retirement, the loss of loved ones, or chronic illness can cause emotional shifts.
These emotional changes in aging are sometimes subtle. They're often mistaken for normal aging behavior that you can ignore. However, prolonged sadness or anxiety can indicate more serious mental health issues.
For example, stress and anxiety present similar symptoms but have different causes and durations.
Stress is often a response to an external trigger. It can resolve itself when that trigger goes away or ends.
Anxiety does not always have a clear or immediate cause. You can't always make it go away on your own without medication or therapy.
One way to recognize behavior shifts in seniors is by knowing what is considered common and normal. Some behavior changes are to be expected, while others may send off warning alarms.
Common signs that should raise concern include:
Many of these behaviors stem from cognitive decline, depression, and anxiety. They may also develop as a reaction to certain medications.
Sudden shifts might signal the early stages of dementia, which can greatly affect a senior's ability to communicate and relate to others. Promptly address these signs through assessment and treatment.
Cognitive health is the ability to think clearly, learn, and remember. It's a critical part of overall wellness in later life. Despite common beliefs, cognitive decline is not an inevitable consequence of aging, though it is more common with age.
Many older adults maintain sharp minds well into their 80s and beyond. What matters is actively engaging in healthy aging habits that promote brain function.
Early signs of cognitive decline may include difficulty following conversations or getting lost in familiar places. For a senior who values their independence, this decline can cause deep depression and anxiety.
Promoting mental wellness for seniors requires a holistic approach that addresses:
Emotional challenges like coping with loss or ongoing medical issues should be handled with care and urgency.
Routine assessments by healthcare providers can help identify depression, anxiety, or cognitive impairment early.
Many doctors will ask relevant questions at each appointment and refer seniors to specialists. However, it's up to the patients to see a therapist or psychiatrist afterward.
Seniors benefit from talking through their experiences and feelings. Geriatric therapists can provide age-appropriate coping strategies and support.
The challenging part is getting seniors to open up to the idea of therapy in the first place. Once they get past that hurdle, they can seek specialized care for their mental health.
Some psychiatric symptoms stem from improper medication usage. Regular reviews of prescriptions can reduce negative interactions and cognitive side effects.
Medications like antidepressants can interact with several substances, such as alcohol and certain supplements. Your doctor should be able to help you narrow down what is safe to take.
Isolation is a major risk factor for mental health issues. Some social outlets that enhance emotional well-being include:
Family members play a vital role in encouraging treatment, observing changes, and providing emotional support. Educating families about senior mental health is critical to early intervention.
Mental and physical health are closely intertwined. Regular exercise, good nutrition, and adequate sleep are all key ingredients to better mood and mental clarity.
Exercise can increase energy levels and lead to better sleep. Eating the right foods supplies your body with the nutrients it needs to operate at peak efficiency.
Despite growing awareness, mental health concerns among seniors are often overlooked or dismissed.
Many older adults were raised during a time when "emotional" struggles were taboo to talk about. This generational stigma often prevents them from seeking help, even when they're suffering.
To combat this, it's crucial to:
A proactive lifestyle can reduce the likelihood or severity of mental health challenges as you age to a significant degree. Of note, older adults should:
While none of these can completely prevent mental illness, they do a lot to help. It's also important to communicate with your healthcare providers about your mental health and any struggles you've had.
Senior behavioral health often goes unnoticed when they live alone or away from family members. If they suffer in silence, no one will know anything is wrong. That's why it's important to stay in touch with seniors and get them the help they need to live happy and fulfilling lives.
Shasta Estates is a senior living community based in the West Redding area. Our residents have access to a unique blend of serene countryside living and urban convenience. They receive as much or as little daily assistance as they'd like.
Reach out today to learn more and schedule a tour of our community.