Mental health issues are very common in seniors as they transition to retirement, some living in Alzheimer’s assisted living facilities or other senior housing centers. Just as with any major life transition, people are prone to mental health issues, and they can be very debilitating if they aren’t treated correctly. This makes suicide a risk for many older people as well, particularly men over 85.
Like other age groups, many older people feel stigma around seeking help for mental health issues. Beyond Blue tells us that they often see it as a ‘character flaw’ rather than a serious illness. However, by opening up and starting conversations around mental health, this can change.
With proper treatment, mental health issues are manageable and even curable in some cases. Here are some of the most common mental illnesses older people experiences, how to spot them, and what the best treatments are.
Depression
Many seniors experience depression as they transition into retirement. In Australia, it is estimated that between 10 and 15 percent of older people will experience depression during this transitional time of life. This figure increases up to 35 per cent for many people who live in aged care homes.
Without the routine of a job and vibrant family life, it can be easy to fall into this condition. It’s a particular challenge for seniors who transition into assisted living, because the change of scenery and pace can be overwhelming at first. It also can be triggered by major life changes such as a chronic illness or injury, financial struggles, or the loss of a partner.
Signs to watch out for with depression include changes in sleeping and eating patterns, a loss of enjoyment in favourite activities and socialisation, extended negative moods and sadness, and a loss of education.
Treatments for depression include talk therapy and medication. Daily exercise, joining a community group or changing your diet are also beneficial and can dramatically lift someone’s mood. If you believe you or a loved one may be experiencing depression, see your doctor as they will provide you with a variety of services or suggestions about how to manage this.
Anxiety
Anxiety is another extremely common mental health condition, and up to 10 per cent of older Australians experience it. Signs of anxiety include persistent worrying or fear, muscle tension, difficulty sleeping and/or chronic fatigue, and panic attacks. There are many subsets of anxiety disorders, including phobias, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. In addition, various factors that can put someone at a higher risk for anxiety, including certain physical health conditions, misuse of alcohol or prescription drugs, the death of a partner or family member, or exposure to a traumatic event.
Like depression, anxiety it can be treated with talk therapy and medication. In fact, depression and anxiety often go hand-in-hand, and many people experience both at different points in their lives. Reducing the natural stress that seniors experience can also prevent anxiety. Many assisted living facilities are becoming more flexible with stress reduction options. For example, there are now many dementia homes that allow pets. After the loss of a partner, many people may also find adopying a pet eases their anxiety, and naturally creates a more active lifestyle.
Eating Disorders
Another common mental illness than many seniors are starting to develop is eating disorders. Eating disorders can take many forms, including anorexia, bulimia, or orthorexia. Many seniors develop eating disorders later in life because they naturally develop changes in their senses of taste and smell, which make them less motivated to eat. Many medications can also change their appetites. If an older person is struggling with other physical or mental health issues, they are also going to be more prone to an eating disorder.
Eating disorders in the elderly can be hard to catch, but some of the signs include weight fluctuations, dizziness, refusal to eat, use of laxatives or vomiting, and an increase in injuries or falls. If a senior has an eating disorder, it is typically treated with therapy sessions as well as nutritional counselling. A change of scenery also may be helpful for someone with an eating disorder.
If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms of mental illness, don’t hesitate to seek treatment as soon as possible. Although mental health issues are common in seniors, they can be treated effectively and quickly to help treat symptoms as well as addressing the underlying psychological problems. Talk to your doctor for counselling and advice regarding mental illness, as well as any other senior living help you may need.
Do you want to stay healthy as you grow older? Are you concerned about the wellbeing of a loved one as they age? Here’s what you need to do: Contact Colleen on 0434 337 245 or Duncan on 0434 331 243 for a FREE 10 minute consultation on how we can best help you or book online now.
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