If you are facing mental health challenges in your golden years, rest assured you are far from alone. According to WebMD, 25% of older adults experience mental health issues. These can include depression, anxiety, dementia, and mental distress.
While no want wants to struggle with their mental health, support for aging individuals can help you through these challenging times. You can face the future with confidence and look forward to brighter days with the right assistance.
In this article, we are going to explore a range of elderly mental health issues that are becoming increasingly common. We will also look at what you can do to have the best possible mental health in old age and what a senior living community can do to support you.
Mental Health in Old Age
We all want to have great mental health, no matter our age. However, attitudes, beliefs, and ideas around mental health can vary from one person to the next, and especially from one generation to the next. Sadly, many older people may fail to realize that many mental health issues can be treated successfully, just like physical health issues.
Depression
According to Mental Health America, over 2 million Americans aged 65 and older have some form of depression. Often, depression is not a standalone condition. Senior depression causes can include:
- Dementia
- Parkinson’s disease
- Cancer
- Arthritis
- Heart disease
These conditions may cause ongoing pain, social isolation, and feelings of uncertainty about the future.
Depression can be a confusing experience for seniors. There can be a big generation gap in attitudes and beliefs about depression between seniors and younger people.
For example, some elderly people may not recognize that depression is a health condition. Because they feel it is something within their control, they may try to handle it themselves and not consider seeking professional help. Also, there is a persistent belief among some seniors that depression is just part of getting older.
However, it certainly doesn’t have to be this way. With the right professional support and a good social network, you can feel differently about life and enjoy it again.
Anxiety
Anxiety can be similar to depression, but it has its distinct symptoms. Some of these include:
- Feelings of anxiousness or nervousness
- Mood swings
- Debilitating feelings of worry
- Phobias
- Feelings of panic
Aging anxiety factors can include worries about finances, loss of independence, and grief. If you are facing these challenges, talk to someone who can help. Having a social support network and living a healthy, balanced life could help you control these feelings of anxiety.
Dementia
There are many forms of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common, followed by vascular dementia. All types affect cognitive function, making it more challenging to recall information and handle the activities of daily living.
Some symptoms of dementia include:
- Memory loss
- Language difficulties
- Confusion about location, time, or other matters
- Difficulty with tasks that involve planning or organizing
- Emotional challenges
Many seniors fear developing dementia. However, while around 10% of older Americans have dementia, 90% do not. And even if you do receive a dementia diagnosis, there are many things you can do that may help your brain stay active, including:
- Mentally stimulating activities, such as games, reading, and puzzles
- Socializing and making new friends
- Eating a balanced diet
- Getting good quality sleep
Senior living communities can also help. Some provide specialist care for seniors with dementia. By helping them stay active, having good company, and participating in enjoyable activities, seniors with dementia can continue to enjoy a fulfilling life.
Signs of Mental Health Challenges
There is no shame involved in saying you need mental health support. However, sometimes, we may not realize we need it, especially if we have not struggled with these feelings before. It’s important not to ignore these signs that our mental health is not as good as it should be:
- Experiencing disturbances to sleep – sleeping too much or too little
- Worrying constantly or feeling stressed
- Struggling to feel positive
- Feeling dependent on alcohol or drugs
- Getting angry or irritable easily
- Having suicidal thoughts
If you are having these feelings, talk to someone as soon as possible. Confide in a friend, family member, doctor, or someone else you trust. There are also helplines you can call.
Remember, you do not always have to feel this way. Elderly mental health issues can be overcome! According to the University of Utah School of Medicine, depression in seniors is treatable in 80% of cases.
Doctors qualified to care for mental health in old age can recommend medications, treatments, and therapies that can help you turn the corner. With the right support, you can look ahead to a brighter future and enjoy your golden years.
How Senior Living Communities Support Mental Health
Senior living communities provide a support network for seniors. With staff on hand 24/7, you need never feel alone. You know that at all times of the day or night, someone is there to provide the support you need.
The staff in senior living communities are not medical professionals, but they work with your healthcare provider to make sure you have what you need. They can arrange regular checkups and support you with medication management. Their support can make a difference and help you feel safe, secure, and protected.
Some senior care communities also offer memory care programs. Staff have special training to meet the particular needs of seniors with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other memory problems. Each resident has their own care plan tailored to their individual needs, including their mental health challenges.
Time to Choose Terrabella Thornblade
At Terrabella Thornblade, we understand that the senior years can bring mental health challenges. Because we understand senior depression causes and aging anxiety factors, we are able to tailor our care to keep these concerns to a minimum. Our residents get personalized care and attention that reduces stress and allows them to focus on enjoying life.
Life revolves around an enjoyable activity calendar in our assisted living and memory care communities. Seniors can stay mentally stimulated and enjoy great company as they exercise, learn, and relax together. Our trained staff is on hand 24/7 to ensure each individual has the support they need.
Come and see for yourself how good life at Terrabella Thornblade can be! Schedule a free tour today.
