Helping A Senior Loved One Suffering From Mental Health Decline 

July 17, 2023 0 Comment Category: Assisted Living

Anyone can have mental health issues at any stage of life, but older persons are typically more prone to depression and other mental diseases. According to the World Health Organization, 15% of persons 60 and older have a mental illness.

However, mental diseases are not always a natural part of aging. If you notice or learn from a loved one that their poor mental health significantly interferes with their daily activities, they may require help. It is especially helpful for family members and friends to assist older persons in finding mental health therapies that will enhance their quality of life. Senior care experts in our assisted living facility share ways in which you can help an elderly loved one suffering from mental health decline. 

Signs Of Declining Mental Health

A decline in mental health may be brought on by a variety of factors, including physical sickness, loneliness, and challenging lifestyle choices. No matter the circumstance, friends and family should be able to spot the typical indicators of a mental health crisis, which include:

• Noticeable, long-lasting mood swings
• Rage, hostility, or unrest
• A lack of joy even when engaging in activities that a loved one usually enjoys
• Having trouble sleeping or sleeping excessively
• Changes in appetite
• Digestion problems, persistent pain, or recurrent headaches
• Dependence on drugs or alcohol
• Suicidal thoughts
• Taking part in risky activities

The list of potential warning signs is endless, but the most crucial thing is to find and deal with any noticeable changes in a loved one’s behavior that might be symptoms of distress.

It is also crucial to keep in mind that depression in older persons can occasionally be mistaken for dementia because both conditions can present with forgetfulness and confusion as symptoms. A person with dementia is also likely to experience depression, and they can try to disguise their memory loss and other symptoms. Talk to your loved one’s healthcare practitioner about how to handle these symptoms if you’re providing care for a loved one who has dementia or Alzheimer’s disease and you notice depressive symptoms.

Different Forms Of Mental Health Services 

Numerous forms of therapy can be used to meet the requirements of older persons and are beneficial for people of all ages who are coping with mental health decline. The most popular treatments for depression and other mental health issues are listed below.

Supportive Counseling: This type of therapy focuses on boosting a person’s self-esteem and enhancing their independence. The intention is to enhance well-being by assisting seniors in rediscovering their sense of confidence.

Coaching For Relaxation And Sleep: Poor sleeping patterns can worsen depression and anxiety while also having an impact on general health. Through meditation, exercise, and appropriate sleep, this type of therapy seeks to reduce upsetting thoughts. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Unwanted, recurrent thoughts frequently support depressive behaviors including self-isolation, anger, and fluctuating appetite. In order to improve quality of life, CBT focuses on recognizing and modifying unwanted beliefs and the accompanying behaviors.

Problem-Solving Therapy: This kind of therapy focuses on overcoming challenging and stressful circumstances from a personal perspective. Problem-solving therapy may be a means for older persons struggling with significant life changes to learn coping mechanisms appropriate to their unique situation.

Therapy For Pain Management: Non-pharmaceutical remedies can help a lot of people who experience aging-related chronic pain. Therapy may occasionally be a good alternative to prescribed drugs.

This is by no means a comprehensive list of methods for treating mental illness. Whatever feelings or situations your loved one is experiencing, be aware that there is a wide range of therapies with the ability to enhance their mood and quality of life on a daily basis.