5 Facts About Mental Health And Aging
As people age, their mental health becomes increasingly important. Older adults often encounter significant life changes and challenges, such as declining physical health or the loss of a loved one, that can lead to depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
Unfortunately, seniors are also more likely to be isolated and lack the support systems they need to cope, resulting in a reduced quality of life and an increased risk of developing mental health conditions.
Seniors need access to mental health resources and support to maintain their well-being and stay connected with their communities.
May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, so we wanted to focus this month's blog on important facts regarding seniors and mental health and local and national resources to support them.
What you need to know about mental health and seniors.
Mental health problems aren't a normal part of aging
Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet many myths and stereotypes surround it, especially when it comes to aging. It's common to assume that mental health problems are a normal part of getting older, but this couldn't be further from the truth.
Anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders are not a natural part of the aging process, nor should they be accepted as such. While it's true that seniors may face challenges that can affect their mental health, such as loss of independence or physical ability, it's important to remember that mental health conditions should never be ignored or left untreated.
Older adults are at risk for mental health conditions regardless of health history
As we age, mental health complications can become a real factor in our lives. For some adults, it's something they manage all their life; however, others may experience changes to their mental health due to chronic illnesses such as stroke or Parkinson's disease.
Additionally - even without previous substance abuse issues - seniors are at risk of turning to medication, drugs, and alcohol if struggles arise related to physical ailments like arthritis or cancer.
Older adults have the highest suicide rate in the United States
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), people over 85 have the highest suicide rate in our country. Older adults, ages 75-84, have the second highest.
Why are seniors at an increased risk for suicide? The top reasons include loneliness, major depression, cognitive impairments, chronic pain or illness, and loss of purpose and self-sufficiency.
If you or a loved one are experiencing suicidal or other mental health-related crises, please call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org (TTY: 1-800-487-4889) or use the Behavioral Health Treatment Locator to get help right away.
A senior's mental health is just as important as their physical health
Mental health is a critical component of overall well-being for seniors, especially as pronounced conditions like anxiety and depression can have an adverse impact on physical wellness.
The CDC confirms that these mood disorders can negatively affect many areas of life for seniors, including their mental acuity and social interactions, and complicate treatments for other chronic illnesses.
Depression is the most common mental health problem in aging adults
Depression is the most prevalent mental health disorder among seniors and left untreated can have devastating consequences, leading to distress and severely impairing physical, mental, and social functioning.
The most common types of depression among seniors include:
Major Depressive Disorder – symptoms lasting longer than two weeks that interfere with someone's ability to perform daily tasks
Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia) – a low mood along with two or more other symptoms of depression that lasts more than two years and may come and go.
Substance/Medication-Induced Depressive Disorder – depression related to the use of alcohol, drugs, or medication
Depressive Disorder due to a medical condition-depression caused by a separate illness, like dementia or heart disease.
Warning signs
Whether your experiencing a decline in your mental health or are a caregiver for a loved one who might be, recognizing the warning signs is critical to getting the proper care.
Some of the most common warning signs for mental health issues in older adults include:
Changes in mood and appetite
Unexplained weight loss
Changes to grooming and hygiene habits
Decrease energy level
Sleeping issues- experiencing insomnia or sleeping too much
Difficulty concentrating
Feeling restless or on edge
Extended sadness
Increased worry or hopelessness
Anger or emotional outbursts
Irritability or aggressiveness
Headaches, digestive problems, or unexplained pain
Abuse of alcohol or drugs
Suicidal thoughts
Obsessive thinking
Compulsive behavior
Withdrawn from family, friends, and activities
Hallucinations
If you or your loved one is experiencing any of these, you should immediately seek medical attention. This is not an inclusive list- consult with your healthcare provider as soon as possible with any concerns or issues.
What mental health resources are available to older adults?
The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) reports that less than half of older adults receive treatment for their mental health disorders. However, mental health conditions are treatable in older adults.
Clinical intervention, such as prescribed medications and/or therapy, combined with other support and resources, can help manage a senior's anxiety, depression, or other mental health condition.
Here are some local and national resources available to support seniors and their mental health:
If you need information about senior living communities in the Richmond area or want to explore housing options to meet the needs of your loved one better, Benchmark Senior Solutions can help.
We offer free senior housing advisory services for older adults in Central VA. That means we use our knowledge and expertise to help your loved one find the perfect place to call home based on their medical needs, budget, and lifestyle.
