As we go through life, we experience different stages. And with these stages come various behavioral and emotional health needs, which understandably shift with time.
However, some of these changes may do more harm than good, and it’s important for our loved ones to recognize negative shifts before it’s too late. That way, they can get us the essential emotional support and any relevant care necessary.
Knowing what to look for in senior behavioral health is vital; it’s the first step in maintaining quality of life in Shelby, NC. So read on to see how behavioral health evolves in older adults, how to identify the warning signs, and what to do about them.
What Exactly Is Senior Behavioral Health?
Senior behavioral health regards people who are 65 or older, and addresses these aspects of their well-being:
- Emotional
- Psychological
- Behavioral
This means that it involves mental health conditions and cognitive disorders, as well as any behavioral symptoms that seniors experience as they age.
Common Behavioral and Mental Health Conditions in Seniors
It’s important to understand aging and mental health before you jump to solutions. Here are some common mental health conditions that can cause changes in behavior with age.
Depression
According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), 1% to 5% of older adults living in the general community have major depression, and this number is much higher for those who are hospitalized or need home health care. While depression in the elderly is common, it’s not a normal part of aging.
Anxiety
Anxiety is also a mental health condition that’s often found in seniors. They may have health concerns or financial stress, and as you get older, these things may be harder to alleviate.
Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
This includes Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, which may sometimes require memory care. In addition to confusion and memory loss, seniors can be aggressive and have mood swings.
Substance Use Disorders
It may be surprising, but substance use disorders affect the elderly just as they do younger people. It’s often overlooked in older adults because of that, but it can include misuse of prescription drugs, alcohol, or over-the-counter medications.
Psychosis or Late-Onset Schizophrenia
This condition is rare, but still possible. The senior in question may experience delusions, hallucinations, or paranoia.
Recognizing Signs of Behavioral Health Changes in Seniors
Now that you know about the common conditions that can affect senior behavior, the next step is recognizing key signs. The important thing is watching for subtle and overt shifts, especially in daily life.
Emotional Signs
Behind every senior’s behavioral changes are emotional signs, although they may be slight and difficult to notice at first. These are the emotional signs you should look out for:
- Persistent sadness
- Apathy
- Increased irritability or aggression
- Unusual anxiety or panic
Cognitive Changes
Cognitive changes can also instigate behavioral shifts. They include:
- Forgetting familiar names, routines, or places
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty making decisions
- Confusion about time or tasks
Behavioral Clues
Here are the behaviors you should keep an eye out for:
- Withdrawal from social activities
- Changes in sleep or eating patterns
- Lack of personal hygiene
- Hoarding or compulsive behaviors
Verbal Clues
Your loved one might say things that hint at behavioral health changes. They include:
- Expressing feelings of hopelessness
- Talking about being a burden
- Mentioning death or suicidal thoughts
Why Behavioral Changes Happen With Age
These shifts in your beloved senior might be confusing. So to help clear things up, we’ll explain why you might be seeing these changes.
Biological Causes
As we get older, our brain chemistry changes, including neurotransmitter levels. In addition, we may experience degenerative brain diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.
Those who are on medications may have interactions or side effects, too.
Psychosocial Factors
Things that happen in our lives can impact our behaviors. Psychosocial factors include:
- Retirement (loss of identity/purpose)
- Death of a spouse, friend, or pet
- Reduced mobility or independence
- Isolation (hearing/vision loss, transportation challenges)
Chronic Illness
Constantly being in pain or discomfort can definitely affect your mood. For example, this may happen if you have diabetes or arthritis.
Plus, hospitalization can lead to post-hospital syndrome or depression.
Family Support for Elderly Loved Ones
Have you now realized that your elderly loved one is going through behavioral changes? Then you might be concerned about emotional wellness in seniors.
Here’s how you can help.
Have Open Lines of Communication
You should bring up your concerns, but talk openly and without judgment. To do this, use “I” statements, such as “I’ve noticed you seem a little down lately.”
You shouldn’t expect them to open up right away, though. Some seniors are resistant to discussing mental health, so be patient.
Encourage Professional Evaluation
There’s only so much you can do for your senior, so encourage professional evaluation with their PCPs, psychologists, or geriatric psychiatrists. If they have memory issues, then advocate for cognitive testing, as memory care and mood are closely linked.
Is your loved one’s mobility limited? Then consider in-home assessments.
Stay Involved Socially
Social activity can make a huge difference in anyone’s mental health. You can help your senior stay active by signing them up for clubs, religious groups, or community centers.
Create a structured routine if possible, as stability can reduce anxiety and confusion.
Monitor Medication and Health
Medications can have both pros and cons, and it’s important to weigh them out. Help your loved one review prescriptions for side effects or interactions, and ensure they’re taken as prescribed.
If possible, attend appointments to stay informed. Together, you can figure out if current meds are worth staying on or need switching.
Help Your Loved One Stay Healthy and Strong
As you can see, senior behavioral health can be just as important as physical health. If you’re proactive about detecting signs of deteriorating health, then you’ll be able to help turn it around before it gets bad.
Just remember to show your beloved senior patience and compassion. By working together, you’ll ensure that they have dignity in their later years.
TerraBella Shelby has a proprietary memory care program that’s won awards. Get in touch with us today if you want to learn more about senior living in Shelby, NC.
