When you think about mental health, you might think about teenagers who are depressed. You might even think about your own bout with mental health issues at some point in your life. However, it might not cross your mind that your elderly loved one may need some help with their mental health. However, it is important to keep in mind that there are millions of senior citizens that have mental health conditions. The good news is there are numerous mental health tips you can share with your loved one.
Aging in Place
One of the things that could help your elderly loved one is if they can age in place. Many elderly people develop stress, anxiety, and depression when thinking about having to move out of their home. Caregivers could potentially help your elderly loved one from having to move. The caregivers can help your loved one to take care of tasks they aren’t able to do. They can help your elderly loved one manage any mental health issues they experience.
Daily Task Assistance
If your elderly loved one needs help in order to stay living on their own, caregivers can assist with this. The caregivers can cook your loved one dinner. They can do light housekeeping and help your elderly loved one with hygiene and grooming tasks, as well. If your elderly loved one has trouble with these daily tasks, it could cause them to experience depression and high stress levels. However, when your loved one gets the help that is needed with daily tasks, they can start feeling better.
Companions
Another reason why many elderly people experience mental health issues is that they are lonely. This could be a result of losing their spouse, losing friends, or just because they don’t spend as much time with family anymore. Either way, your elderly loved one might need more companions to help them feel better. If this is the case, it is important to know that caregivers can be companions for your elderly loved one. They can have conversations with your loved one. They can spend time doing activities and hobbies that your elderly loved one enjoys.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why elderly people experience mental health issues. However, there are also many ways that caregivers can help your elderly loved one to feel better. Whether your elderly loved one is experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or any other mental health condition, caregivers can help out quite a bit. If your elderly loved one is needing more help with their mental health, be sure you have them see their doctor. Sometimes, lifestyle changes are needed. Other times, medication might be needed.
Sources
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/older-adults-and-mental-health/index.shtml
If you or an aging loved one is considering hiring caregivers in San Jose, CA, please contact the caring staff at Home Helpers today (408) 317-4969.
