The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that around 14% of adults 60 and above have a mental health condition. Seniors living in Myrtle Beach,SC, a city popular for its ocean views, warm weather, and friendly atmosphere, value emotional wellness, especially in retirement.
The city offers senior-friendly activities and a community feel, making it an excellent choice for independent senior living in Myrtle Beach, SC. But even in such a peaceful setting, you may still face mental health challenges.
So, what is the most common mental illness in the elderly, and how does it affect those in senior living communities in Myrtle Beach, SC? Read on to learn more about the condition and discover how a supportive environment can help.
What Is the Most Common Mental Illness in the Elderly?
Depression is the most common mental health issue affecting seniors and their families. The National Council on Aging reports that it affects 1% to 5% of older adults in the general community.
The prevalence of depression is also high in older adults who need home health care, with 13.5% of them suffering from it.
Why Are Seniors Vulnerable to Depression?
Depression affects how you think, feel, and handle daily activities. As a senior, you’re more likely to get depressed due to several issues.
Physical Health Problems
Aging increases your risk for conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. These can make daily tasks like walking, cooking, or even getting dressed harder. The constant pain or illness will also wear you down emotionally and cause depression.
Loss of Independence
Losing independence as you age can be devastating, especially if you previously lived an active life. Sometimes, you may find it hard to drive to your favorite location without help.
You might also require assistance maintaining your home or conducting repairs. Needing frequent support can make you feel less in control of your life, causing sadness.
Grieving the Loss of Loved Ones
While grief is a big part of growing older, it’s often tough to handle. The pain of losing a loved one can cause you to feel sad and depressed even after a long time has passed.
It may also cause you to isolate yourself from your family. If you don’t have someone to talk to about your feelings or everyday life, you might eventually suffer from depression.
How Depression Affects Seniors in Myrtle Beach
The beautiful surroundings of Myrtle Beach communities offer many benefits for seniors, but depression can still interfere with everyday life. You might notice that you no longer enjoy activities you love. In some cases, you may make up excuses to avoid spending time with your loved ones or other seniors.
Depression often worsens other health conditions and slows recovery. Furthermore, it may cause you to neglect your physical health and fail to attend doctor appointments.
If you take medication for chronic health issues, you could sometimes miss doses, which makes it harder to manage symptoms. Other ways depression can affect you include:
- Increasing the risk of suicide
- Reducing your memory and concentration
- Causing you to feel anxious and irritable
- Impairing your ability to make sound decisions
- Reducing your energy and motivation
Depression can mess with your sleep patterns, making it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep. As a result, you may feel tired and lack the energy to participate in senior activities during the day, worsening your mood.
How Aging and Cognition Affect Your Mental Health
Your brain’s chemistry changes as you age, impacting how you think and feel. You may start experiencing memory or attention problems, causing you to feel frustrated and depressed.
Keeping your mind active will reduce cognitive decline and protect your mental health. Luckily, you can explore many senior-friendly activities in Myrtle Beach to promote your brain health. Examples include:
- Special events and classes at The Myrtle Beach Senior Center
- Friendly competitions at the Lowcountry Senior Games
- Book clubs at local libraries, such as the Horry County Library
- Volunteer opportunities at Myrtle Beach organizations
Exploring these activities will help you maintain cognition and emotional wellness. It also promotes healthy habits, improves social connections, and gives you a positive outlook on aging. Staying engaged with your local community will ultimately keep your brain active and improve how you feel daily.
Supporting Emotional Wellness in Senior Living in Myrtle Beach, SC
Retirement communities understand the importance of supporting mental health when dealing with depression in older adults. At TerraBella Myrtle Beach, we offer the supportive, holistic services you need when dealing with mental health issues.
Our community has engaging social programs that encourage connection and lower isolation. Joining these will help you connect with others and make you feel valued and part of something bigger. Other ways we support senior mental health are:
- Encouraging creative expression through arts and crafts
- Hosting educational events on behavioral health in aging
- Creating quiet reflection areas around the community
- Including your family in conversations about your care
- Stimulating your body and mind with the Dimensions health and fitness program
- Offering access to spiritual and faith-based support
Our friendly employees also plan various group outings so you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings and local culture. For instance, they organize relaxing walks along the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. Here, you can watch the waves roll in or enjoy an ice cream with a friend.
We also love organizing group visits to Brookgreen Gardens, which is a peaceful and inspiring spot. These outings can break a monotonous routine, spark new conversations, and make your life feel fuller.
The change of scenery in local attractions may also reduce stress, improve memory, and give you something to look forward to.
Get Support for Senior Mental Health in Myrtle Beach
Understanding that depression is prevalent among seniors will help you protect your well-being. Watch out for common signs, like low energy and social withdrawal, then seek help. Join a supportive community to access socialization opportunities and holistic programs.
Now that we’ve answered- ‘What is the most common mental illness in the elderly?’ it’s time to find support.
At TerraBella Myrtle Beach, we offer all-inclusive senior living in a community known for its strong bonds with the locals. Our attentive care will help you unlock your dream retirement lifestyle without sacrificing independence. Contact our team to check out our community.
