Gardening for Cognitive Health

Therapy is not just for younger adults or people facing a crisis. Research shows that older adults can benefit significantly from psychological therapy, and some large studies have found particularly strong outcomes among adults 65 and older. Learn why seniors seek therapy, what counseling can help with, how to find the right therapist, and when it may be time to talk with someone.You can spend decades being the person everyone else turns to.You solve problems. You care for your family. You manage a career, raise children, support a spouse, help aging parents, and learn how to get through difficult times.Then life changes.Retirement may feel different than expected. A spouse or close friend dies. Health problems appear. Adult children move away. You become a caregiver. Your social circle gets smaller. Or you simply realize that something has been weighing on you for a long time.Talking with a therapist does not mean you have failed to handle life on your own.For many older adults, therapy for seniors is simply another resource for dealing with change, grief, anxiety, depression, relationships, caregiving, and the questions that can come with getting older.And there is an important fact worth knowing: older adults can respond very well to psychological therapy.Do Older Adults Really Benefit From Therapy?A large 2021 study examined more than 100,000 people receiving psychological treatment for depression or anxiety through eight services in England. After accounting for differences between the groups, adults age 65 and older had higher odds of reliable recovery and improvement than working-age adults. They were also less likely to stop treatment early.That does not mean every senior will respond better than every younger adult. Individual results vary, and newer research has also found that older adults can benefit to a similar extent as working-age adults. The broader message is clear: age alone is not a reason to assume therapy will not work.A 2026 review of 86 randomized trials involving more than 10,000 older adults also found evidence supporting several psychological treatments for depression, including cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral activation, problem-solving therapy, and life review therapy.Quick Facts About Therapy for SeniorsCan older adults benefit from psychotherapy? Yes. Research supports psychological therapies for conditions such as depression and anxiety in older adults.Is depression a normal part of aging? No. Depression can occur later in life, but it is not considered a normal part of getting older.Do you need a mental health diagnosis to talk with a therapist? Not necessarily. People may seek therapy to cope with grief, stress, relationships, life transitions, caregiving, or other concerns.Where can you start? A primary care provider can be a good first contact and may refer you to a qualified mental health professional.Retirement Feels Harder Than ExpectedRetirement is often pictured as one long vacation.For some people, it is freeing.For others, leaving work means losing: A daily routine Professional identity Regular contact with coworkers A sense of accomplishment Familiar responsibilities A reason to leave the house each morning You can be financially prepared for retirement and still be emotionally unprepared for how different life feels.Counseling can help you think through questions such as:"What gives my days meaning now?""What do I want this stage of life to look like?""Why do I feel lost when I thought retirement would make me happy?"Those are legitimate questions.Caregivers May Need Someone to Talk To TooYou may be caring for a spouse with dementia, helping an adult child with health problems, or coordinating care for an older relative.Caregiving can become the center of your life.A therapist can provide a place where the conversation is about you rather than the person you care for.You might discuss: Stress Anger Guilt Changing relationships Family disagreements Difficult caregiving decisions Personal boundaries Anticipatory grief Changes in your own identity Seeking caregiver support does not mean you care less about your loved one.It means your well-being deserves attention too.Anxiety Can Show Up Later in LifeWorry is not limited to younger adults. The National Institute of Mental Health includes increased worry, feeling stressed, difficulty concentrating, sleep changes, irritability, and feeling restless or on edge among possible mental health symptoms that older adults should discuss with a healthcare professional when concerning or persistent.Psychological interventions can help older adults experiencing anxiety. A systematic review of lower-intensity psychological interventions found benefits for both anxiety and depressive symptoms among older adults studied.Depression Can Look Different Than People ExpectMany people picture depression as constant visible sadness.That is not always how it appears in older adults.The National Institute on Aging notes that some older adults with depression may experience emotional numbness or loss of interest rather than sadness as the main symptom. Other possible signs include fatigue, sleep problems, difficulty concentrating, appetite changes, hopelessness, irritability, and withdrawal from previously enjoyable activities.If these changes persist, do not simply assume:"I'm getting older."Depression is not considered a normal part of aging, and treatment options are available.What Actually Happens in Therapy?If you have never been to therapy, the idea may feel awkward.You might picture lying on a couch while someone silently writes notes.Therapy is generally much more conversational.Psychotherapy, sometimes called talk therapy, involves working with a qualified mental health professional to identify and address troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.Depending on your needs, sessions might focus on: Understanding patterns of thought Managing anxiety Adjusting to retirement Processing grief Navigating relationship changes Coping with illness Improving communication Managing stress Building healthier routines Finding new ways to respond to difficult situations The approach depends on the therapist and your goals.What Types of Therapy Are Used With Older Adults?There is no single type of therapy that is right for every senior.Cognitive Behavioral TherapyCognitive behavioral therapy, often called CBT, focuses on connections among thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.CBT is one of the approaches with evidence supporting its use for depression in older adults.Problem-Solving TherapyProblem-solving therapy focuses on identifying manageable problems and developing practical approaches to address them.Research has supported its effectiveness for depression in older adults.Interpersonal TherapyInterpersonal therapy focuses on relationships, grief, changing social roles, and interpersonal difficulties. The National Institute on Aging lists interpersonal therapy among approaches that may be used to treat depression.Life Review or Reminiscence ApproachesSome therapies help older adults reflect on meaningful experiences, relationships, accomplishments, regrets, and major events across their lives.Life review therapy has also been studied as a treatment for depression in older adults.The right approach depends on the person, the concern being addressed, and the therapist's professional assessment.Signs It May Be Time to Talk With SomeoneYou do not have to wait until life feels unbearable.Consider talking with your doctor or a mental health professional if you notice persistent changes such as: Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed Feeling hopeless or empty Worrying so much that it interferes with everyday life Having trouble sleeping Sleeping much more than usual Feeling increasingly isolated Struggling after a significant loss Feeling overwhelmed by caregiving Becoming unusually irritable Having difficulty concentrating Feeling unable to adjust to retirement or another major life change These symptoms can have many causes, including medical conditions or medication effects. A healthcare provider can help evaluate what may be contributing to them.Therapy Is Not Only for a CrisisOne misconception about counseling for seniors is that something has to be seriously wrong before you go.It does not.You might talk with a therapist because:"I don't know what I want retirement to look like.""My spouse died and I need someone outside the family to talk to.""I'm worried all the time about my health.""I love my family, but caregiving is exhausting me.""My children think I should move, and I'm struggling with the decision.""I feel lonely even though people are around me.""I want to handle this next stage of life differently."Therapy can be a place to work through these concerns before they become larger problems.Where Should You Start?If you do not know how to find therapy for seniors, start with someone you already know.That might be your primary care provider.A healthcare provider can evaluate whether symptoms might have a medical cause and refer you to an appropriate mental health professional when needed.Other possible resources include: Your health insurance provider Medicare resources Local health systems Community mental health centers Licensed therapists in private practice Senior centers Aging services organizations Local senior resource directories Do not assume the first therapist you meet must be the person you stay with. A good therapeutic relationship matters, and it may take more than one conversation to find the right fit.Frequently Asked Questions About Therapy for SeniorsIs therapy effective for older adults?Yes. Research supports psychological therapy for many older adults, including those experiencing depression and anxiety. Some large real-world studies have found particularly favorable outcomes among older adults compared with working-age patients.Am I too old to start therapy?No. There is no age at which someone automatically becomes too old to benefit from talking with a qualified mental health professional.Is depression just part of getting older?No. Depression is not considered a normal part of aging and can be treated.Can therapy help after losing a spouse?Therapy may help people process grief and adjust to significant life changes. Persistent or severe symptoms should be discussed with a qualified healthcare or mental health professional.Can I do therapy from home?Some mental health professionals offer telehealth appointments. Availability, licensing requirements, insurance coverage, and whether telehealth is appropriate will depend on your circumstances and provider.What if therapy does not seem to be helping?Talk with your therapist about your concerns. NIMH advises discussing lack of improvement and considering other professionals or approaches when appropriate.Talking to Someone Can Be Part of Aging WellGetting older does not mean you stop changing.Relationships change.Your body changes.Your responsibilities change.Your home may change.Your role in your family changes.You may lose people you love while also discovering interests, relationships, and possibilities you did not have time for earlier in life.You do not have to work through every one of those changes alone.Therapy cannot remove every difficult circumstance, but it can provide a structured place to understand what you are experiencing and work toward healthier ways of managing it.And the evidence gives older adults an important reason not to dismiss therapy simply because of age.Older adults can benefit from psychological treatment, and for many people, asking to talk with someone can be a practical first step toward feeling better.Help Seniors Find Your Services Through Seniors Blue BookWhen an older adult or caregiver decides it is time to seek help, being able to find the right local professional matters.If you are a mental health professional, counselor, senior care provider, home health agency, senior living community, caregiver support organization, healthcare provider, or another business serving older adults, Seniors Blue Book can help make your services easier to discover.Seniors Blue Book connects seniors, caregivers, and families with senior-focused resources and providers in their communities.Your organization can begin with a free Seniors Blue Book listing, giving families another way to discover the services you provide. Providers seeking additional exposure can also explore upgraded visibility opportunities.Want to reach more seniors, caregivers, and families searching for support? Contact Seniors Blue Book today.Email: [email protected] Phone: 800-201-9989Disclaimer: This article is provided for general educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, psychiatric, or other healthcare advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Mental health needs and treatment options vary from person to person. Anyone experiencing persistent or concerning changes in mood, behavior, sleep, thinking, or daily functioning should speak with a qualified healthcare or mental health professional. Anyone who may be in immediate danger or at risk of harming themselves or another person should seek emergency assistance immediately.

Gardening is a great way for seniors to feel a sense of purpose, gain a renewed appreciation for nature, and grow something beautiful to enjoy. Its also a fantastic way to stay active. Not everyone has the space or ability to maintain a large garden, which is where patio gardening comes into play. With these seven tips, you can create a beautiful and manageable garden right on your own patio!Start small: If youre new to gardening, we suggest beginning with a small garden that is easy to manage. Choose a few plants that are low maintenance and require minimal effort, and grow from there.Use containers: One of the biggest advantages of patio gardening is the ability to maintain your plants in containers easily. This allows you to control the soil quality, water levels, and sunlight exposure for each plant. Plus, it makes it easier to move your plants around as needed for optimal growth. You can even get creative with your containers by using repurposed items like old buckets or teapots.Ensure proper drainage: Look for containers that are the right size for your plants and have adequate drainage holes to prevent overwatering or waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot. Also, use a good-quality potting mix with good drainage properties.Choose the right plants: It's important to choose plants that are well-suited for container gardening and can thrive in the limited space and conditions of a patio. Look for plants that are labeled as "patio" or "container" varieties, and consider factors like sunlight, water needs, and temperature tolerance. Some great options include herbs, succulents, lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, and flowers like marigolds, petunias, and geraniums.Provide sufficient sunlight & water: Most plants require at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Make sure your patio garden is located in a spot that receives adequate sunlight. Container plants dry out faster than plants in the ground, so youll need to check the soil regularly and water as needed to ensure your plants are moist but not waterlogged.Use the right tools: The best gardening tools for seniors offer lightweight materials, ergonomic shape or design, longer handles, and electric or automated features. These tools can help reduce strain on joints and muscles and make gardening enjoyable. If you need new tools, Amazon has a great list of senior-friendly gardening supplies!Ask for help: Don't hesitate to ask for help from friends or family members if needed. Gardening can be a fun social activity, and sharing the workload can make it more enjoyable. In fact, gardening is a favorite pastime for many residents at Resort Lifestyle Community. Here are a few recent highlights.Many of our communities love growing plants and nurturing friendships along the way. If this sounds like a lifestyle youd love, contact Stone River Retirement Community today. Wed enjoy the opportunity to welcome you!

For active seniors on the move, the best indoor plants are the ones that require very little maintenance. The kinds of plants that can complement the dcor of any senior apartment, but wont lose their beauty if the resident decides to embark on a last-minute getaway. Whether you have a green thumb or brown thumb, these delightful indoor house plants will elevate your space without the burdens of constant care.Low-Maintenance Indoor Plants1.PothosStarting the list is the perfect starter for any apartment. The pothos is one of the most durable indoor plants you can find. They require very little water and can thrive in limited sunlight. However, they do grow best in partial sunlight next to a window. All types of pothos are vine plants with large deep-green leaves. Other types such as Devils Ivy Pothos have a mixture of light and dark green leaves, and some even bloom beautiful, colorful flowers. Whichever type you prefer, pothos lend an airy, flowy, green freshness to any room in your apartment.2. PhilodendronLike the pothos, the philodendron is perfect for hanging pots because of their long vines that can grow up to 10 feet. Also like the pothos, its among the most durable, low-light indoor plants that require little water. Philodendron are also very easy to prune and propagate (planting a new plant from the stem or leaf of a parent plant), so you can practically create a jungle of philodendron in your apartment.3. Snake PlantThe snake plant is a highly popular indoor plant for two reasons. Firstly, snake plants maintain their stiff posture and vibrancy even after weeks of neglect in low light. Secondly, snake plants are very efficient air purifiers making them an ideal plant for senior apartment homes.4. ZZ PlantThe Zamioculcas zamifolia, or ZZ plant, is a beautiful and hearty green plant thats said to symbolize prosperity. But what makes it one of the best indoor house plants is that its drought-tolerant and low-maintenance. Its thick stalks store lots of water, so much so that you only have to water it once or twice per month.Lots of Love PlantsFor those who want to cultivate a green thumb and dont mind putting in a bit of extra work, these are some of the best indoor plants that thrive with a little TLC.5. Peace LilyThe Peace Lily is the perfect plant for taking indoor greenery to the next level. It requires slightly more attention than other indoor plants, but can bloom beautiful results. It prefers constant moisture, but hates to be over- watered, and grows best in a bright but shady spot near a window. Its lovely white flowers do carry pollen, so it may not be for those with allergies.6. GardeniaThe delightfully potent gardenia can be frustrating to deal with due to its high maintenance nature. However, its vibrant white flowers and elegant shape are well worth the effort. Gardenias love being surrounded by bright light without sitting directly in it. Theyre also particular about their soil acidity, preferring soils with a lower pH level. Further, they thrive when soil is consistently moist, but their leaves will brown and wilt if directly exposed to water.7. Fiddle Leaf FigThe Fiddle Leaf Fig is native to the rainforests of central Africa. So, as you can imagine, they prefer a humid, warm, bright environment. Place them away from any vents or drafty areas and make sure they have plenty of direct sunlight. They also need frequent watering and misting to mimic their natural humid habitat.8. Moth OrchidWhile not the easiest plant to grow in an apartment, certain kinds of orchids can thrive indoors. The phalaenopsis, or Moth Orchid, is unlike other orchids in that it blooms year-round. It requires consistent moisture and tends to absorb water quickly, so youll need to monitor the il carefully. Orchids also prefer to be up against windows to maximize indirect light exposure. With proper care, theyre the perfect pop of color for any senior apartment.Honorable Mention: Simple SucculentsIf you love having house plants in your apartment dacor, but dont want the burden, succulents may be your best option. Theyre the easiest, most adorable indoor plants you can find. Their resilience and adaptability make them ideal for a senior apartment home whose owners like to be out and about. Theyre the ideal low-maintenance, long-living indoor plant that can elevate any rooms dacor. These are the trendiest succulents you can find today:Burros TailFlaming KatyJade PlantAloe VeraPincushion CactusDudleyaZwartkopHens-and-ChicksZebra Plant