How Seniors With Mental Health Conditions Can Age Safely At Home

As seniors get older, they have an increased risk of developing mental health disorders. Many seniors who enjoy living at home worry that if they are diagnosed with a mental health disorder, they won’t be able to continue living on their own. So they don’t seek help. But having a mental health condition doesn’t stop seniors from living at home. In fact, the benefits of living at home can lessen the symptoms of some mental health conditions like depression. Companion care at home can also help seniors.

Seniors that have companion care at home have the social connection and support they need for good mental health. Companion care at home helps seniors who have common mental health conditions like:

Depression

Depression is very common among seniors. Seniors who have depression may struggle with feelings of sadness, hopelessness, a lack of purpose, and loss of interest in life. Depression symptoms can be triggered by factors such as the loss of loved ones, retirement, health problems, or social isolation. Depression can be made worse by loneliness, so having companion care at home is a big help to seniors that are trying to manage the symptoms of depression.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety, are also common in seniors. These conditions involve excessive worry, fear, and feelings of nervousness, often interfering with daily activities. Anxiety can be triggered by life changes, health concerns, financial worries, or social stressors. When left untreated, anxiety disorders can lead to physical symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, and muscle tension. Sometimes just having a companion in the house can help reduce the intensity of anxiety symptoms.

Substance Use Disorders

Seniors can be affected by substance use disorders just like other populations. Some seniors may misuse alcohol or prescription medications to cope with physical or emotional pain, loneliness, or boredom. When seniors lose a spouse or a partner they also may turn to prescription painkillers, alcohol, or other substances to cope with their grief. Seniors who have substance use disorders should talk to their doctors about treatment options that are designed to help seniors.

Bipolar Disorder

While less common than other mental health conditions, bipolar disorder can still affect some seniors. Bipolar disorder involves extreme mood swings, ranging from depressive episodes to periods of mania or hypomania. Seniors with bipolar disorder may experience challenges in managing their symptoms due to other medical conditions or medications they are taking. Proper diagnosis and adherence to treatment plans are essential to help seniors with bipolar disorder maintain stability and minimize the impact of mood fluctuations on their daily lives.

Seniors who have dementia can also live at home with proper support. A diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s doesn’t mean that seniors need to give their independence or leave the home that they love. Alzheimer’s specialty care is available to help seniors that have dementia who want to stay at home as they get older.

If you or an aging loved-one is considering companion care at home in New York City, NY, please contact the caring staff at Touching Hearts at Home – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Westchester, Queens, Rockland today. 212-201-6139