What are the Most Common Mental Illnesses in the Elderly?

As we get older, psychological disorders in old age can become more prevalent due to a number of factors. Luckily, there are ways to get treatment. In this post, we’ll review ways to navigate mental health for elderly.

What is the Most Common Mental Illness in the Elderly?

Anxiety and depression are among the most common mental illnesses affecting older adults.

• Anxiety. Excessive fear, worry, or nervousness can disrupt daily functioning, lead to avoidance of social or routine activities, and cause physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, chest pain, headaches, and gastrointestinal problems.
• Depression. Persistent feelings of intense sadness or despair can last for weeks or months and may cause a loss of interest in daily activities, poor sleep, low energy, changes in weight, and difficulty concentrating.

What Are Symptoms of Senior Mental Health Issues?

Symptoms of mental issues in the elderly include:

• Noticeable changes in mood, energy or appetite
• Persistent sadness, hopelessness or emotional numbness
• Difficulty experiencing positive emotions
• Increased worry, stress or feelings of being on edge
• Trouble concentrating or feeling unusually restless
• Increased anger, irritability or aggression
• Changes in sleep, including difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• Frequent headaches, digestive problems or unexplained pain
• Misusing alcohol or drugs
• Taking part in risky or dangerous activities
• Repetitive, obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors
• Thoughts or behaviors that disrupt work, family or social life
• Behaviors or thought patterns that concern others
• Seeing, hearing or feeling things that others do not
• Thoughts of death or suicide, or attempting suicide

In the next section, we’ll review risk factors for old age mental diseases.

What Are Risk Factors for Negative Mental Health for Elderly?

Psychological disorders in elderly can become more prevalent due to a number of factors. They include:

• Bereavement, retirement and financial changes
• Ageism
• Social isolation and loneliness
• Abuse and neglect
• Caregiving responsibilities
• Poor health and living conditions

Next up, we’ll take a look at the importance of treating elderly mental diseases and ways to improve old age mental problems.

Why Is Older Adult Mental Health Treatment Important?

As we age, life changes such as serious illness or the loss of a loved one can affect mental health. While many people adjust, persistent grief, isolation or loneliness can contribute to depression and anxiety. Mental health matters at every age, and recognizing the signs and talking with a health care provider are important first steps toward treatment and a better quality of life.

How Can You Improve Senior Mental Health Care?

Mental health treatment for seniors should include the following:

• Stay socially connected. Spend time with loved ones, volunteer, join a class, or find other ways to connect with your community.
• Follow a regular routine. Structure your days with consistent activities while making room for new hobbies and interests.
• Take care of your physical health. Prioritize sleep, nutritious meals, movement and avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol.
• Take medications as directed. Follow your health care provider’s instructions and seek help if medication costs are a concern.
• Limit negative media exposure. If the news increases your stress or anxiety, set boundaries around when and how often you consume it.
• Focus on gratitude and simple joys. Paying attention to the positive moments in your life can help lift your mood and improve your outlook.
• Seek professional support when needed. Talk to a healthcare provider about persistent sadness, anxiety, or other mental health concerns.

What Are Resources for Older Adults and Mental Health?

Overcoming an older adult mental health crisis can involve a variety of therapy methods. Sometimes, counseling older adults can include seeking outside help. Below are some other resources for navigating mental health in old age:

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Contact your local NAMI Affiliate to learn about available programs and support.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Call or text 988 for free, confidential crisis support anytime, anywhere in the U.S.
• Disaster Distress Helpline. Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 for free, confidential, multilingual crisis support.

To learn about our home care services, contact our caregiving team today at 1-800-GRISWOLD or find a Caregiver near you.