Help and Compassion for Caregivers

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 14% of adults aged 60 and over live with a mental disorder of some kind. Mental health issues can vary greatly, and they often grow more severe with age. Unfortunately, mental illness in older adults is often overlooked or mistaken for normal signs of aging. At Aston Gardens at Pelican Pointe, we prioritize the holistic health of our residents and recognize that mental wellness is key to a fulfilling and vibrant life. Our community is located in Venice, FL, a city that offers a laid-back, coastal lifestyle with access to numerous festivals, arts and culture events, and outdoor recreational activities. Many people find themselves asking, "What is the most common mental illness in the elderly?" If you're wondering the same, keep reading this guide, which covers what you need to know. What Is the Most Common Mental Illness in the Elderly?Conditions like dementia and anxiety are well-known for affecting seniors, but depression remains the most prevalent mental health issue in older adults. Depression in seniors is more than just feeling sad or down; it's a serious medical condition that affects:MoodEnergy levelsOverall functioningFor seniors, depression can be particularly debilitating, often complicating existing health conditions and reducing independence. Why Is Depression So Common in Older Adults?Depression can affect people of all ages. But why is it such a common issue for mental health in elderly adults?Chronic Health ConditionsMany elderly individuals live with chronic illnesses such as:Heart diseaseDiabetesArthritisParkinson's diseaseThese conditions can lead to pain, disability, and a loss of independence, increasing the risk of depression. Grief and LossAs people age, they often experience the loss of spouses, friends, or family members. Grieving is natural, but prolonged sadness can develop into clinical depression. Social Isolation and LonelinessRetirement, mobility issues, and the death of peers can lead to reduced social interaction. Loneliness is a significant risk factor for depression in seniors. Medication Side EffectsSome medications prescribed for high blood pressure, chronic pain, or other conditions can contribute to depressive symptoms. People should always discuss medication with their doctors so they can know if it may increase the risk of depression or other health issues. Cognitive DeclineEarly stages of dementia or other cognitive impairments can later lead to depression. Individuals struggle with memory loss and confusion, which may take a significant toll. Signs and Symptoms of Depression in the ElderlyDepression in older adults doesn't always present the same way it does in younger people. There are some key signs of mental illness in aging individuals. Some key indicators to look out for include:Persistent sadness or hopelessnessLoss of interest in hobbies or social activitiesFatigue and low energySleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)Changes in appetite (weight loss or gain)Difficulty concentrating or making decisionsPhysical aches and pains without a clear causeThoughts of death or suicideUnfortunately, many seniors dismiss these symptoms as a normal part of aging. As such, even with various signs showing, it's not uncommon to see underdiagnosis and undertreatment. How Is Depression Diagnosed and Treated?Spotting depression and treating it properly can have a huge impact on someone's life. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of depression, it's important to seek help from a healthcare professional. A doctor may conduct:A physical exam to rule out other medical conditionsBlood tests to check for vitamin deficiencies or thyroid issuesA psychological evaluation to assess mood and thought patternsTreatment Options for Elderly DepressionDepression is never good, and people can often feel like there's no way out. Fortunately, however, there are several treatment options. The right senior mental health care can help someone get their life back on track. Therapy (Counseling)Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a popular treatment option that helps individuals reframe negative thoughts and develop coping strategies. Support groups can also provide a sense of community and shared understanding. MedicationAntidepressants may be prescribed, but doctors must carefully monitor side effects. Some medications can interact with other drugs seniors may be taking, which may lead to further issues. Lifestyle ChangesRegular exercise (even light activities like walking) can boost mood. Physical activity is incredibly important for seniors for both their physical and mental well-being. Many seniors become far less active as they age, so living in a retirement community that encourages different physical activities can be highly beneficial.Maintaining a healthy diet is also something many seniors fail to do. A balanced diet rich in omega-3s, vitamins, and minerals supports brain health. Social interactions are similarly important for the well-being of seniors. They can achieve social engagement through family visits, senior centers, or community events to reduce isolation. At Aston Gardens at Pelican Pointe, we organize various social activities to encourage our residents to interact with one another and form friendships. Alternative TherapiesThere are some alternative therapies that can be helpful in many cases. Some examples include:Music therapyArt therapyPet therapyHow Aston Gardens at Pelican Pointe Supports Mental WellnessThe team at Aston Gardens at Pelican Pointe understands that mental health is a crucial aspect of senior care. Our community offers:Comfortable housing optionsSupportive, compassionate staff trained to recognize signs of depressionEngaging social activities to foster connections and combat lonelinessFitness and wellness programs to promote physical and mental healthWe believe that with the right support, seniors can lead joyful, meaningful lives. While depression can be a significant burden, living in the right environment can help seniors cope with this issue far more effectively. Emotional Wellness in Assisted LivingYou may no longer need to wonder "What is the most common mental illness in the elderly?", but dealing with it is another matter. Recognizing the signs, seeking professional help, and maintaining an active, socially engaged lifestyle can make a significant difference. If you or a loved one is struggling with depression, remember that help is available. At Aston Gardens at Pelican Pointe, we're committed to providing a nurturing environment where seniors can thrive mentally, emotionally, and physically. Our compassionate team has years of experience, and we can tailor our care to meet the needs of each individual. Contact us today to schedule an in-person tour and discover more about our community.

Aging brings various changes to the body, but losing weight unexpectedly is not always a normal part of growing older. If you notice a family member shedding pounds without trying, it may point to an underlying issue. Identifying the reasons behind weight loss in seniors can help you take the right steps to support their well-being.Medical Conditions that Affect WeightChronic illnesses can cause the body to burn calories faster or make eating more difficult. Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and hyperthyroidism may lead to a drop in weight. If your loved one has any of these conditions, regular check-ups can help manage their effects on their body.Cognitive diseases like Alzheimers can also contribute to weight loss. Forgetting to eat or being unable to recognize food can lead to reduced intake. If a family member is showing signs of confusion around mealtimes, they may need additional support.The Role of MedicationsCertain medications can impact appetite and digestion. Some drugs change the way food tastes or cause dry mouth, making meals less appealing. Others may lead to nausea, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing, discouraging regular eating.If your loved one has started a new prescription and you notice changes in their eating habits, speak with their healthcare provider. Adjusting dosages or switching medications may help address the issue. It is important to recognize these side effects before they lead to further complications.Mental Health and Appetite ChangesEmotional well-being has a significant impact on eating patterns. Depression and anxiety can reduce appetite, leading to weight loss over time. If your loved one appears withdrawn, uninterested in meals, or less engaged in daily activities, their emotional state might be affecting their nutrition.Dementia and other cognitive conditions may also disrupt eating habits. Some older adults forget to eat or lose interest in food altogether. Recognizing these signs early can help you find ways to encourage proper nutrition and maintain their overall health.Social and Lifestyle FactorsEating habits can change due to social circumstances. Living alone, losing a spouse, or having fewer social interactions can make mealtimes feel lonely. Some older adults lose interest in preparing meals when there is no one to share them with.Limited access to food can also contribute to weight loss. Mobility challenges, financial constraints, or a lack of transportation can make grocery shopping difficult. If a family member is struggling with these obstacles, offering assistance or finding community resources can make a difference.Digestive Issues and Nutrient AbsorptionDigestive health plays a key role in maintaining weight. Conditions such as acid reflux, ulcers, or irritable bowel syndrome can make eating uncomfortable. Some older adults may avoid certain foods due to bloating, pain, or nausea.Malabsorption can also lead to weight loss. If the body is not absorbing enough nutrients from food, even a balanced diet may not be enough. Consulting a healthcare professional can help determine if a digestive issue is affecting their weight.Supporting Your Loved Ones HealthAddressing unexpected weight loss starts with identifying the cause. It can either stem from a medical condition, medication, or lifestyle change, and in all these, early intervention can make a significant difference. Encouraging balanced meals, regular health check-ups, and emotional support can help your loved one maintain their well-being.If you notice concerning weight changes, do not ignore them. Seeking professional advice and making adjustments to diet, medication, or daily routines can promote healthier aging. By staying attentive, you can help your family member maintain a comfortable and nourishing lifestyle.

As you age, your investment goals may change. Youre likely looking for more stability and less risk while still earning returns. So, what are the best investments for seniors? In this post, well explore some of the most practical and effective options that offer safety, growth, and peace of mind.Bonds: A Stable OptionBonds are one of the most reliable options for seniors who want steady returns without too much risk. Government bonds, municipal bonds, or corporate bonds can offer interest payments that help supplement your income. Treasury bonds are especially popular because theyre backed by the government, making them a low-risk choice.Dividend StocksDividend stocks can be a great way to earn regular income without selling your investments. These stocks pay you a portion of their earnings, typically every quarter. While stock prices can fluctuate, many well-established companies have a solid history of paying dividends, making them a relatively stable option for seniors looking to boost their income.Real Estate InvestmentsReal estate can be a great investment for seniors looking to create a steady income stream. Rental properties, for instance, provide a steady stream of cash flow from tenants. For a passive investment, real estate investment trusts (REITs) let you invest in property without direct management. Its a solid way to diversify your portfolio and protect your wealth from inflation.Certificates of Deposit (CDs)If you prefer guaranteed returns, certificates of deposit (CDs) are a great option. They allow you to lock in a fixed interest rate for a set period, typically ranging from a few months to several years. The downside? Your money is tied up until the term ends, but the peace of mind they offer makes them a popular choice for conservative investors.AnnuitiesAnnuities are financial products that offer a steady income stream, often for the rest of your life. Theyre ideal for seniors who are looking to avoid outliving their savings. With different types of annuities available, you can choose one that best fits your needs, such as fixed or variable annuities. Just be sure to research thoroughly before committing, as annuities can sometimes have higher fees.High-Yield Savings AccountsFor seniors who prefer a safer, more liquid investment, high-yield savings accounts are a solid choice. These accounts offer better interest rates than traditional savings accounts. While they wont make you rich, they are a great place to park emergency funds or short-term savings with easy access.Mutual FundsIf youre not keen on picking individual stocks or bonds, mutual funds are a smart choice. They pool your money with that of other investors to purchase a variety of assets. This helps spread the risk across multiple investments. There are many types of mutual funds to choose from, including those that focus on income generation or those that invest in a mix of stocks and bonds.Securing Your FutureWhen it comes to the best investments for seniors, its important to choose options that balance risk with income needs. Be it youre looking for reliable income through bonds or dividend stocks for long-term care solutions, there are plenty of investment options available. Dont forget to consult with a financial advisor to help tailor your investment strategy to your unique needs.If youre ready to explore life in our retirement community, connect with us today and discover the best option for your future.