Why Is There a Stigma Around Mental Health in Older Adults?
According to Global Health Estimates (GHE), approximately 14% of adults over age 60 have a mental health disorder. Mental health issues can affect anyone. Why is there a stigma around mental health?
Although mental health has become a hot topic, there is still a stigma surrounding seniors and mental health. Many seniors face challenges such as anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment, yet they are often reluctant to reach out for help.
Recognizing the impact of good mental health for seniors is the first step toward ensuring their well-being. At The Pointe at Lifespring in Knoxville, TN, we prioritize senior mental health.
Let's take a look at the stigma around senior mental health and what you can do if your loved one is struggling.
Mental Health and Aging
Older adults, just like younger adults, can be affected by mental health conditions, including:
- anxiety
- depression
- bipolar disorder
- thought disorders
These conditions may be lifelong and can worsen as the individual ages. Some adults develop mental health disorders later in life.
Difficult life experiences may trigger depression and anxiety in individuals who haven't struggled with their mental health in the past. Some seniors begin to experience these issues after retirement or after their children have left home.
Social isolation is a serious problem for many seniors. Feelings of loneliness can lead to mental health struggles. Health issues and a loss of independence can contribute to mental health problems in older adults.
Why Is There a Stigma Around Mental Health?
The stigma associated with mental health has a long and complicated history. It's difficult to change long-standing societal and cultural beliefs.
Many people view mental health problems as a sign of weakness. This leads many who suffer to hide their problems. This stigma may make seniors reluctant to seek medical help.
Societal judgment hinders seniors from getting the care they need. They may be afraid to discuss these issues with their doctor or family members.
Fear and uncertainty can prevent seniors and caregivers from seeking the mental health support they need. Seniors may try to hide their mental health issues, leaving them to suffer in silence.
Overcoming this stigma takes time and requires educating the public and establishing policies that prioritize senior mental health. The goal is for the public to see the critical link between physical and mental health.
Fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding empowers seniors to seek help and maintain the dignity and respect they deserve.
The Signs of Mental Health Issues
Understanding the signs of mental health struggles can be the first step to providing the support your loved one needs. Some common signs of mental health issues include:
Changes in Mood
Irritability, mood swings, and persistent sadness over time may indicate deeper mental health struggles. If a senior is unusually agitated or down, they could have an underlying mental health problem.
Changes in Sleep Patterns
Sleep disturbances can be an indicator of mental health issues. Look for signs of the following:
- Excessive sleeping
- Insomnia
- Broken sleep patterns
Withdrawing From Activities
Losing interest in things they once enjoyed can be a sign of mental struggles. Withdrawal from family, friends, and social interactions is a common sign of depression.
At The Pointe Lifespring, our Celebrations program promotes leisure and social activities to keep your loved one active and involved.
Appetite Changes
Appetite changes in seniors can indicate mental health issues. Significant changes, including loss of interest in eating, skipping meals, or overeating, can be symptoms of depression and other health issues.
Cognitive Impairment
Confusion, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating can be signs of mental health issues. If you notice symptoms of cognitive impairment, schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional. Discuss the best ways to support memory care and emotions.
Physical Symptoms
Frequent headaches or unexplained aches and pains can be signs of mental health struggles. Constant stomach aches and digestive issues may also be related.
If you're searching for senior mental health support, reach out to your loved one's doctor or a mental health professional for an evaluation. At The Pointe at Lifespring, we understand the importance of senior mental health and do all we can to support our residents and their families.
Senior Mental Health Support
If you think your aging parent or loved one is struggling with their mental health, there are many ways to support them. Some Knoxville elder care tips include:
Communicate With Your Loved One
Foster a safe environment where your loved one feels comfortable sharing their feelings and concerns. They should know it's okay to discuss their mental health struggles and that you are there to support them.
Recommend Professional Help
If your loved one is struggling with mental health issues, gently encourage them to seek professional help. A geriatric psychologist or psychiatrist specializes in the mental health needs of older adults. A primary care doctor can help you find the right specialist if needed.
Offer Practical Support
For a senior struggling with their mental health, everyday tasks can become overwhelming. Helping your loved one with laundry, meals, housework, and errands can be a huge support.
Transitioning to a senior living community is often a good choice for older adults who need assistance with the daily tasks and stresses of life. A quality senior living community prioritizes emotional wellness for aging and can offer stigma education for families.
Promote Healthy Habits
Staying as active as possible as you age is crucial to good physical and emotional health. Encourage your loved one to participate in activities, engage with others, and eat a balanced diet.
Breaking the Stigma Around Senior Mental Health
Why is there a stigma around mental health? The answer is complicated and involves decades of misconceptions and a lack of education about mental health.
Many seniors are reluctant to admit they are struggling. If your loved one is showing signs of mental health issues, there's a lot you can do to support them and get the help they need.
If you're considering a move to an assisted living community or a memory care community, The Pointe at Lifespring prioritizes each resident's quality of life and well-being. With amenities like a full-time concierge, amazing dining, and The Peake Fitness Center, you will love all we have to offer.
Contact The Pointe at Lifespring today to schedule a tour.