Mental Health for the Elderly in Assisted Living Homes

According to the National Institute of Health, approximately 8.6 million people over 65 have depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. In assisted living homes, the percentage of the elderly with severe mental health issues is over 31%. 

Mental health challenges are common in the elderly, and they include: social isolation, adjustment disorders (often happen after moving to an assisted living home), and depression and anxiety. 

What are some steps to take to help alleviate our older loved ones’ issues with mental health?

1. Daily physical activities like stretching, chair yoga, tai chi, and walking help to reduce anxiety, a common complaint of the elderly, and to boost mood. 
2. Wellness practices like a balanced diet, hydration, and proper sleep can help with depression. 
3. Combat loneliness buy encouraging social interaction at community groups or senior centers, as well as phone calls or video chats with family.
4. Hobbies in assisted living homes that keep the mind active are another great practice for the elderly. Puzzles, reading, and painting help with cognitive health. 
5. Routines are crucial for to establish predictable daily routines to help track medications safely and reduce stress.
6. Empathize with older people to validate how they’re feeling, which helps with depression and anxiety.
7. Don’t be afraid to ask a professional for help, such as their primary physician or a geriatrice mental health specialist.

There are several support services for loved ones and medical practioners of the elderly. Here are a few of the most important ones:

1. Medication management should be reviewed a few times a year to maintain health and wellness, and also ensure the patient is taking the proper medications at the right doses. Regular appointments with a doctor to track medications are recommended.
2. Routine and consistent screenings detect mental health issues early, making them easier to treat.
3. Therapy and counseling should be used either as individual sessions, or group therapy, to help build coping strategies and process grief. 
4. Group activities like arts and crafts, fitness, and social events help the elderly to feel like they belong and can give them a sense of purpose. 

Many assisted living homes in Arizona provide all of these services to help residents and patients to live their best lives. At Modern Care Homes, we work with mental health professionals on a daily basis to ensure our residents feel comfortable and safe.