Many elderly adults and seniors have mental health concerns not normally associated with aging. It can be as many as one in five. Often they experience anxiety, mood swings, or even depression.
Treatment is usually effective, but often elderly don’t seek out help. Their undiagnosed and untreated mental health illness can effect them and those around them. With this in mind, here’s what you need to know about aging and mental health.
The Importance of Mental Health
Having good mental health helps your overall well-being. Older adults who have untreated mental health issues can have poor quality of life and struggle in ways such as diminished functioning and increased mortality.
Even physical illness can arise out of mental health illness. Having mental health problems is not a normal part of aging. Deep sadness that lingers is a sign of depression. Normal worries are also much different than anxiety disorders.
Symptoms that May Require Professional Help
Here are five symptoms that indicate an elderly person should seek help from a health care professional.
- Lingering sadness that lasts more than two weeks
- Ongoing worries. These worries could be over issues such as money, family, or their own health.
- Persistent trouble sleeping or concentrating
- Often having trouble remembering things or being confused even in familiar places
- Drinking more than one alcoholic drink a day or taking more medication than prescribed
The Risks for Elderly and Seniors
Many adults can go through life and manage a chronic mental illness. But mental health problems may also appear in their aging years. Factors that can affect mental health include a stroke, Parkinson’s disease, cancer, arthritis, or diabetes.
Medications can also affect mental health. Older adults who don’t have a history of substance issues may end up abusing medications, alcohol, or drugs.
Enjoying Your Life as You Age
There are several steps you can take to enjoy your elderly and senior years. You can thrive, keep growing and learning and love your life. Some easy things to do to help you enjoy your life include reading, walking, socializing, taking part in activities at your assisted living facility, and even trying something new.
Continuing to exercise your body and your mind are good for your mental health. So are keeping up with your social connections, which may be a reminder to contact friends and family you haven’t heard from in a while.
Get To Know Bellaire At Stone Port
At Bellaire at Stone Port, we know that choosing the right community for yourself or a loved one is a big responsibility. Touring communities and asking questions can be taxing.
Let us make the experience enjoyable for you! We invite you to schedule a visit and come out to experience the Stone Port difference for yourself.