Behavioral Healthcare for People Over 65
Just because you are older and no longer in your prime years doesn’t mean that you have to feel anxious or depressed all the time. If you happen to be dealing with any mental health concern in what was supposed to be your life’s golden years, there are now experts in behavioral healthcare for people over 65 who can help you. Whatever your age might be, most mental health problems today can be treated easily and successfully.
Seniors and Mental Health Problems
Older people such as those over 65 tend to develop some of the most common mental health problems. These include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, and schizophrenia, just to name a few.
Aside from this, a lot of people over 65 also deal with emotional concerns that are usually associated with age. Good examples of these are changing roles during retirement, death of the spouse or a close friend, isolation, changes in the living situation, and a reduced income. Most seniors also deal with several physical health problems that can further add to their mental health issues.
Treatment of Mental Health Concerns in Seniors
The very first step for an effective treatment is to get an accurate diagnosis. When you consult a mental healthcare provider for people over 65, they will first conduct an assessment to know the mental health conditions you may have. They will also perform a comprehensive assessment for dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease included, as well as other cognitive problems. They will also assess you for other medical conditions like coronary artery disease, hypertension, diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, and kidney disease.
Experts in behavioral healthcare for people over 65 will also take a closer look at the medications you are taking. Some medications and several health conditions can cause a few symptoms that may resemble mental health problems. There are instances when treatment for a physical problem or simple adjustment in medication can result in better mental health improvements.
If it is found that you do require treatment for a certain mental health condition, there are different options available. You can choose from inpatient hospitalization stays, partial hospitalization programs, and group and individual counseling. Some of these programs have been specially designed with an elderly patient’s unique needs in mind.
Most people discover that the educational and group counseling program is quite helpful because they give older people, who are usually isolated from other members of the community, to receive the support of their peers and create new social bonds.
There are also groups focusing on problems like coping with loneliness and depression, coping with aging, dealing with the dynamics of the family, grief support, stress reduction, and effects of alcohol and drugs.
Some facilities also have case managers who can help people access to other community services like meal and transportation help.
There is no longer a reason for you to spend your senior years feeling isolated and happy. All it takes is one call and you will find the help you need.