Senior Mental Health Posted on: April 2, 2019 Alzheimer's and Dementia Care According to the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors, 20 percent of people in the U.S. age 65 or older have a mental health concern. These concerns can range from anxiety to depression or dementia. Catching these in their initial stages is crucial to limiting their long-term effects. Those who operate as primary family caregivers are often the first to notice the symptoms and reach out for help for their aging parent. Anxiety and Depression These are the two most common mental health issues among the elderly in the U.S. Depression affects approximately 7 million adults over the age of 65 every year. Treatment for Depression The good news is that depression can be treated. Unlike anxiety which can be addressed with lifestyle changes, depression requires immediate medical attention. Risk Factors for Depression Those that have experienced an intense loss or chronic pain are at greater risk for developing this disease. Signs of Depression The signs of depression include: Hopelessness Extreme fatigue Persistent sadness Changes in the amount of sleep—either excessive or deficient Changes in eating habits—either too much or too little Chronic pain Headaches Loss of memory Related Article: Anxiety and Depression in Older Adults Dementia Dementia is a syndrome that includes loss of memory, reasoning, judgment, communication skills and behavioral changes to the extent that those affected can no longer perform the tasks of everyday living. It affects approximately 47.5 million people worldwide. Approximately 5.3 million people over the age of 64 are affected by Alzheimer’s in the U.S. alone—a disease that causes dementia. Signs of Dementia The signs of dementia include: Loss of short-term memory Difficulty maintaining a conversation by losing the storyline or trouble finding the right words Increasing anxiety or apathy Loss of self in space or time Confusion Repetition How to Help Reducing the risk of these mental health concerns requires emotional, social, and physical support. If any of these symptoms become apparent, make an appointment with their primary health care provider. Over 80 percent of cases of depression can be treated successfully. While dementia has no definitive treatment, dietary changes, increasing physical activity, and mental stimulus has been shown to slow down its progression. Keep your loved one active by incorporating social outings and trips to the local senior community center into their schedules. These centers are incredible resources for seniors. They not only provide a meeting place for individuals going through similar phases in life, but they also offer various classes, shared meals, and group outings. Contact Sonas for Home Health Care Services in Florida In addition, consider obtaining the services of a home health care provider. These caring professionals can assist with the daily activities of living as well as provide that all-important component of a life lived well and happy—companionship. If you or an aging loved one are considering home health care services in Florida, contact the caring staff at Sonas Home Health Care. Call today (888) 592-5855. Sources https://www.cdc.gov/aging/pdf/mental_health.pdf https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/elderly-and-aging https://www.who.int/en/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-of-older-adults Jillian Miller BSN, RN Director of Nursing at Sonas Home Health Care This blog was reviewed by Jillian Miller BSN, RN — Director of Nursing for Sonas Home Health Care’s Tampa Bay market — for clinical accuracy. Jillian Miller has been a nurse for 16 years — working primarily in pediatrics. She believes the best part of working with the pediatric population is when you see smiles from clients when you first enter the room. She loves seeing the difference you can make in families’ lives while providing the best care possible for them. Enjoy this article? Share it! Conversations
