Importance of the Mental Health of Seniors

Author

Discovery Village at Naples

Posted on

May 07, 2021

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

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Mental health concerns across the senior and elderly populations are widely undiagnosed, but with upwards of 7 million seniors reportedly suffering in silence and solitude, its time to identify and take steps to reverse what appears to be a global mental health epidemic among the senior population.
While diagnoses like dementia and Alzheimer's are consistently at the forefront of the conversation, depressive disorders actually represent the #1 mental health issue among seniors. But depression and its many iterations consistently go unrecognized and untreated among seniors, a clear sign that more vigilance is needed to identify and sufficiently treat symptoms of depression before they escalate and potentially lead to more serious outcomes, such as major depressive episodes, self-destructive behaviors, and even suicide.
Various lifestyle factors among seniors can act as powerful catalysts for depression, from declining physical abilities to the loss of friends and loved ones. However, the emphasis on seniors maintaining independence actually works against them in this case, making it less likely affected seniors will ask for or seek out the help they need in any sort of timely manner.
Clearly, seniors and society as a whole can do better. So as we work to further the discussion about seniors and mental health, understanding these early warning signs and the many available tools and outlets for effectively dealing with mental health concerns is a crucial first step towards ensuring longer and more fulfilling lives for seniors.
Early Warning Signs
There's a strong and very direct correlation between declining mental health and worsening physical health. So beyond just changes in mood, feeling sad or lonely, or deriving less joy from certain activities, paying less attention to personal grooming and appearance, changing eating or sleep patterns, or withdrawing from family or social activities should all raise concerns and not go unaddressed if noticed.
Important warning signs to look for in order to identify mental health concerns in seniors include:

Persistent sadness
Trouble falling asleep or sleeping too much
Decreased socialization
Loss of interest in usual activities
Excessive worrying
Irritability
Feeling worthless, helpless, or hopeless
Changes in appetite
Crying spells
Trouble focusing, remembering, or making decisions
Declining personal care and appearance

7 Ways Seniors Can Improve Mental Health
Although seniors might be uniquely vulnerable, they are not helpless when it comes to combatting mental health concerns. So whether its going on the offensive and taking preventive measures, or just being aggressive about soliciting help and support, using all available tools and resources is key to feeling better faster and continually cultivating an environment in which seniors are empowered and vigilant when it comes to ensuring their own mental health.

Challenge the Mind: Spend time reading and/or writing, studying a foreign language or other subject, playing an instrument, or doing puzzles

Get Physical: Take regular walks, make exercise an important part of life, and enjoy physical activities where possible

Stay Connected with Friends: Stave off the ill effects of loneliness and isolation by remaining in regular contact with friends and loved ones. Technology like FaceTime and Skype make video calling simple and seamless, but theres always e-mail, sending letters or postcards, and old-fashioned phone calls, too

Take Part in Events and Activities: At senior living communities nationwide, activities programs are specially designed to offer a variety of recreation and social options, which leave seniors feeling more active, involved, and purposeful about their day-to-day lives

Volunteering: Doing good for others is a great way to do good for ourselves, too. Giving time to worthy organizations from the local community helps support causes, but also makes the individual feel valued, appreciated, and more accomplished in the process

Caring for a Pet: Animals offer unconditional love and companionship, and where appropriate, can keep seniors active and more engaged while leading their care. Alternatively, volunteering at a local animal shelter can have a similar effect without the full-time responsibility

Get Help: Its long past time to defeat the lingering stigmas about mental health and be proactive about asking for help. Medical professionals in both the office and residential setting are trained to recognize warning signs, but can also help expedite proper care for affected seniors.

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Why Assisted Living May Be the Right Choice for Your Loved One:

As adults get older, they often insist on maintaining their independence and want to continue aging in place at their homes. The concept of privacy and autonomy is very important to us; however, there may be a time when its no longer safe for an older relatives well-being for them to continue living alone at home. Our assisted living community provides support with assistance with activities of daily living, recreational activities, and staffing to ensure your loved one receives the care and support they deserve. Moving your relative into an assisted living facility can seem intimidating, but it will provide peace of mind for you and increase safety and comfort for your loved one. Though it can be emotionally difficult to consider, your older relative may need assisted living to continue living well. Here are some signs that it may be time for assisted living: Withdrawal from Interests and Social Activities Social engagement and keeping busy are important to the mental health and well-being of all of us. If you notice your relative pulling back from social commitments and showing a lack of interest in their hobbies and activities, this may be a cause for concern. Our assisted living community provides a calendar of events for residents and an engaging social network to combat loneliness. Difficulty Completing Daily Living Activities Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are important essential activities of everyday life, such as bathing and toileting. When adults get older, many of them experience difficulties with these tasks. When it becomes too cumbersome for your relatives to complete ADLs on their own, it may be time for them to move to an assisted living facility. Our community aids with daily living activities, ranging from reminders to physical assistance from personal care aides. Errors in Medication Self-Administration Medication management is crucial for seniors. As seniors age, it is not uncommon for them to have trouble with taking the correct dosage of their medication at the right time. These mistakes can be seen as unimportant, but they may also have serious health consequences for your loved one. Our assisted living community can assist seniors with medication reminders and assistance. Increased Safety Concerns The elderly are at a higher risk than most for falling and receiving injuries. Many seniors insist on staying in their homes as they age, but there may be a point where the fall risk is too significant for them to live independently at home, especially for individuals who have homes with stairs or slippery floors. Our assisted living community has enhanced safety features, including grab bars, non-slip mats, and call buttons for emergency assistance. Caregiving from Family Members Becomes Overwhelming Many adults consider it an honor to take care of their aging parents, as their family once took care of them; however, the reality of caregiving can be emotionally and physically demanding on caregivers, with many reporting burnout and increased feelings of anxiety and depression. There may also be a point where a relatives needs exceed the caregiving abilities of their family members. This is a good time to consider assisted living for your loved one. Our community can provide more assistance and care from multiple caregivers in a secure setting. Your older relative may resist or express concern about moving into an assisted living facility, with many having fears about loss of autonomy and insistence that they dont need help, however, assisted living communities provide an opportunity to give support while maintaining a residents independence to the best of their ability. In our community, we value both independence and safety, encouraging residents to take part in planned activities and outings. Family and friends are always welcome to visit and be part of the experience. Schedule a tour today and discover why our community could be the perfect place for your loved one to feel at home.

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Discovery Village At Naples - Respite Care

Housing - Other Types 8417 Sierra Meadows Boulevard, Naples, Florida, 34113

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Discovery Village At Naples

Independent Living 8375 Sierra Meadows Boulevard, Naples, Florida, 34113

Discovery Village At Naples offers exceptional care and stylish senior living in Naples, Florida. Our community provides independent living, assisted living, and SHINE Memory Care options, ensuring that every resident receives the level of care that meets their needs. Our community features luxurious, resort-style amenities designed to enhance the daily lives of our residents. From social activities like weekly happy hours and lectures to major events with performers, there's always something engaging happening at Discovery Village. Residents can also enjoy access to a professional beauty salon, a cutting-edge FitCamp Health & Fitness Center, and a heated indoor therapy pool.We offer six distinctive lifestyle programs that promote enriched living and enhanced wellness. These programs are designed to eliminate chores and obligations, giving residents more time for leisure and relaxation. Our caring and reliable staff are dedicated to ensuring that all of our residents' needs are met, enhancing both their mental and physical well-being.Located close to Vanderbilt Beach, shopping centers, parks, and golf clubs, our community offers easy access to a variety of attractions. Come visit Discovery Village At Naples and experience carefree living in one of the most desirable locations for senior living in Florida.

Discovery Village At Naples

Assisted Living 8417 Sierra Meadows Boulevard, Naples, Florida, 34113

Discovery Village At Naples offers exceptional care and stylish senior living in Naples, Florida. Our community provides independent living, assisted living, and SHINE Memory Care options, ensuring that every resident receives the level of care that meets their needs. Our community features luxurious, resort-style amenities designed to enhance the daily lives of our residents. From social activities like weekly happy hours and lectures to major events with performers, there's always something engaging happening at Discovery Village. Residents can also enjoy access to a professional beauty salon, a cutting-edge FitCamp Health & Fitness Center, and a heated indoor therapy pool.We offer six distinctive lifestyle programs that promote enriched living and enhanced wellness. These programs are designed to eliminate chores and obligations, giving residents more time for leisure and relaxation. Our caring and reliable staff are dedicated to ensuring that all of our residents' needs are met, enhancing both their mental and physical well-being.Located close to Vanderbilt Beach, shopping centers, parks, and golf clubs, our community offers easy access to a variety of attractions. Come visit Discovery Village At Naples and experience carefree living in one of the most desirable locations for senior living in Florida.