Mental Health Issues in the Elderly Population
One major problem in diagnosing and treating seniors with mental illness is that elderly individuals are more likely to report physical issues than they are psychological issues But Typical emotional and physical stresses associated with aging can lead to depression or anxiety.
Here are some possible triggers for mental illness in senior citizens: [vi]
• Chronic pain
• Chronic disease
• Physical disease affecting emotion, thought, or memory
• Physical disabilities
• Loneliness
• Life changes
• Grief/Loss
• Widowhood
• Medication side effects, Substance Use/Abuse
Mental Illness in the Elderly-As we grow older, it isn’t uncommon to see changes. General forgetfulness is normal, but persistent depression, anxiety, memory loss, or other cognitive issues can be signs of something more serious.
Mental Health Disorders in the Elderly
It is important for elderly individuals to get treatment, especially for depression, which can complicate the treatment of a number of medical condition/ diseases.
Depression
Depression is a type of mood disorder that ranks as the most pervasive mental health concern among older adults. If untreated, it can lead to physical and mental impairments and impede social functioning. Additionally, depression can interfere with wellness and overall health. Seniors with depression may visit ERs and doctors more frequently, take more medications, and experience longer hospital stays than their same-age peers. Women are more likely to be affected than men.
Late-Onset Depression Risk Factors to Watch Out For
~Depression can typically be successfully treated in older adults. If you suspect a loved one or client is showing signs of depression, seek help immediately.
Anxiety Disorders-Like depression, anxiety is a very common mood disorder among the elderly. In fact, these two problems often appear together. Anxiety in seniors is thought to be under diagnosed because older adults tend to emphasize physical problems and downplay psychiatric symptoms. Women in this age group are more likely to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder than men.
Seniors can be diagnosed with the following related disorders including:
Phobia: An extreme, paralyzing fear of something that usually poses no threat, phobias can cause individuals to avoid certain things or situations due to irrational fears. Examples can include fear of social situations, flying, germs, driving, etc.Panic disorder: This disorder is characterized by periods of sudden, intense fear that can be accompanied by heart pounding, rapid heartbeat, shaking, sweating, difficulty breathing, or experiencing feelings of doom.
Social Anxiety Disorder: This social phobia causes individuals to fear being in social situations where they feel they might be judged, embarrassed, offensive to others, or rejected
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD) is a disorder that usually manifests following a traumatic event that threatens a person’s safety or survival, greatly impacting his or her quality of life.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorders, or manic-depressive illnesses, are often marked by unusual mood shifts and are frequently misdiagnosed in senior citizens because the symptoms presented are typical with the aging process, especially related to dementia and Alzheimer’s. Bipolar disorder occurs equally among women and men in this age group. Symptoms may present differently in the elderly than younger adults. Effects of medications and some types of illnesses may show similar symptoms. Individuals should be seen and diagnosed by a medical professional to determine the root cause of any symptoms as well as the best options for treatment.
Eating Disorders
Eating disorders like bulimia and anorexia are becoming increasingly more prevalent among elderly.Underlying behavioral or psychological issues that cause and exacerbate eating disorders can go undetected before an eating disorder is identified and treated, which is dangerous. Elderly individuals face many unique challenges with eating, such as dentures, digestive issues, medications, or other health problems that affect appetite and eating, it’s important to gain an evaluation to determine the prevalence of an eating disorder rather than make assumptions.
Treatments for Mental Illness in the Elderly
There are a variety of treatment options for those suffering from mental health disorders, including medications, therapy or a combination of both. If you suspect that your loved one is struggling with a mental health issue, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the individual’s health care provider. They can direct you to a geriatric psychiatrist, psychologist, or counselor who can help. Treatment for seniors is a team effort, especially when they are unable to care for themselves. Ensure that the elderly individuals in your care are well supported by seeking help when symptoms are spotted and providing love and emotional support to help ensure the highest quality of life possible.