Society has come a long way regarding the acceptance of mental health issues in the general population. Today, more people recognize it’s important to practice self-care and promote a positive mindset in their everyday lives. However, there’s still one major part of the population that tends to get overlooked due to false beliefs. Debunking these five myths about elderly mental health helps everyone in one of the most vulnerable parts of our society enjoy a higher state of wellbeing.
1. Depression in Seniors Is Normal
People sometimes assume older adults will feel depressed more than the average person. After all, seniors are more likely to experience changes in their life that exacerbate feelings of sadness. The truth is, seniors might experience brief episodes of depression after a loss or new health diagnosis, but sadness that lasts more than two weeks may need professional treatment.
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a leading provider of home care Clearwater, FL, families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
2. Negative Behaviors Are Just Normal Senior Stubbornness
The concept of a cranky senior has existed for many years. Anger, frustration, and increased emotional outbursts aren’t normal at any age. If your loved one is exhibiting new behavioral changes, this could be a sign he or she is experiencing dementia or an emotional health condition. Scheduling an assessment could help your loved one get back to his or her normal loving self.
3. Seniors Are Past Experiencing Anxiety
Every life stage comes with its own anxieties, yet people still tend to think the senior years are full of time for relaxation. Seniors actually worry about many things. Retirement may bring an end to the stresses of having a career, but now your loved one must worry about his or her financial standing. Your loved one may also be anxious about his or her health and ability to manage living alone. Seniors who experience anxiety that interferes with their normal daily activities can benefit from professional counseling or having more social interactions that serve as a distraction.
4.Older Adults Aren’t Likely to Develop Addiction
A large part of drug addiction awareness plans are aimed at society’s youth out of the well-meaning desire to stop substance abuse problems before they start. This is good, but there should also be a focus on how addiction can impact the elderly. Some older adults find they become addicted to painkillers that are prescribed to manage chronic pain. Alcoholism is common in seniors who are lonely. Providing your loved one with companionship can help with his or her recovery.
One of the most challenging tasks of helping an elderly relative age in place safely and comfortably is researching agencies that provide elderly home care. Turn to Home Care Assistance for reliable, high-quality in-home care for aging adults. We offer 24-hour live-in care for seniors who require extensive assistance, and we also offer respite care for family caregivers who need a break from their caregiving duties.
5. The Elderly Won’t Respond to Mental Health Treatment
Seniors do sometimes balk at the thought that they need help with their mental health, but they’re just as capable of responding to treatment as anyone else. For the best results, mental health care should include regular professional treatments. If your loved one has difficulty getting to medical or counseling appointments, planning for transportation services can help.
Some family caregivers may find it challenging to carve out the time to help their loved ones get the help the need to live happy and healthy lives. Whether you need respite from your caregiving duties or your aging loved one needs live-in care, Clearwater, Florida, Home Care Assistance can meet your family’s care needs. Our dedicated caregivers are available around the clock to provide transportation to doctor’s appointments, ensure seniors take their prescribed medications, and help with a variety of tasks in and outside the home. To schedule a free in-home consultation, call us today at (727) 330-7862.