Psychotherapy for Aging Adults: When to Seek Professional Help?
As we get older, we definitely will go through many life transitions—retirement, physical health challenges, the death of friends/family, and cognitive decline. Each one of these transitions, whether emotional, psychological, or social, will profoundly affect the mental health of older adults. In many cases, these changes may feel completely overwhelming, and they struggle to manage. The good news is that psychotherapy for older adults can be an effective way to manage these transitions. But how do you know when the time is right to seek therapy, and what can psychotherapy give the elderly?
What You Need to Understand About Psychotherapy for Seniors
Psychotherapy, also called mental health therapy for older adults, is when an older adult has sessions with a trained therapist, a specialized unit, or clinician to address the emotional, psychological, or behavioral challenges the older adult may experience. Psychotherapy gives essential support to older adults as they transition through a major life transition, such as grief, abandonment, depression, anxiety, and/or the limitation of old age. Just like we frequently check on our physical health, we should equally assess our mental health in the later years of our life.
When to See a Psychotherapists for Seniors
Determining when to see a psychotherapist for seniors can be a complex matter. Many older adults may not wear their emotions on their sleeves, which makes it difficult for skilled services caregivers / loved ones to know what the elder adult might be feeling and knowing when therapy is needed. Sadness, anxiety or depression may still be present but unexpressed. In addition, some elderly individuals may not even know that they are additional suffering from what they believe is simply “normal aging.” Regardless, therapy in old age can improve ones overall mental health and fully boost the ability to adversely function.
If you think psychotherapy may help your loved one, yet are unsure, think about whether the below key indicators could suggest help is needed:
- Persistent Sadness/Depression: Although it is not out of the realm to be a little sad, since everyone could probably consider times of feeling sad, if feelings of sadness persist and have – at times – possible included feelings of hopelessness, then it is possible there are depressive factors at play. Anyone can experience depressive symptoms at any age, and it is not uncommon to do so among older adults, specifically in the context of major changes, such as loss of partner, or even chronic health concerns.
- Difficulty Adjusting To Life Changes: Major life changes such retirement, moving into assisted living, and or medical changes have been noted to take an emotional toll on an elderly persons overall well-being. If an elderly person has difficulty adapting to these changes, therapy may possibly provide them with adaptive skills to improve their coping mechanisms.
- Social Isolation: Almost every person will experience some level of social isolation and restrictions late in life. While some people may simply just have low levels of social engagement, the use of public health restrictions may be scapegoats for elderly social isolation. On the other hand, to add to greater issues for elderly persons, if they are actually feeling lonely and isolated, the present issues can cause additional stress and burden on unrelated mental health safety nets. Counseling services for elderly people could promote some re-engagement as previously established safety net, but may create a return to the present or previously established social network.
- All-Up Anxiety and Fear: As we age we reach periods of fear, for example: fear of death, loss of independence, or significant illness. Similarly, anxiety disorders in elderly persons may present themselves for the first time, or grow worse at times of life transition. Psychotherapy can be a useful support for seniors as they navigate these feelings and achieve comfort in their lives.
- Sleep Concerns: Chronic sleep disturbances, especially those related to stress, anxiety, or worries about others, can negatively impact overall health. Psychotherapy for older adults can help identify the emotional factors related to sleep and begin to address the issues.
- Name cognitive decline: Memory problems, confusion or difficulty with attention in older adults, may be early signs of dementia or other cognitive issues. Therapy can facilitate processing the emotional aspects of cognitive decline, along with the development of coping strategies.
The Many Values of Therapy for Older Adults
There are many values associated with older adults experiencing mental health challenges to have therapy. Some of the benefits of therapy, include:
- Improved Emotional Health: Therapy can guide older adults in dealing with challenging feelings, difficult memories or loss. As a result, improved emotional regulation can lead to improved mental health over time.
- Increased Quality of Life: Working through mental health challenges can improve the overall quality of life for older adults. When emotional issues are addressed, it is common for seniors to have improved physical health, relationships and sense of purpose.
- More Productive Cognitive and Behavioral Strategies: Psychotherapy can help older adults develop more productive cognitive and behavioral strategies. For instance, seniors who have memory issues or dementia can learn coping strategies that allow them to be more independent with some level of confidence. For example, older adults with memory issues or dementia can learn coping strategies that make them feel more independent and confident. The older adults that have the ability to learn new coping strategies, would gain use of their self-determination.
- Decreased Anxiety: Therapy offers older adults a safe place to unpack their concerns and anxieties. Simply discussing concerns and issues can help provide some comfort and relief of stress, which also could reduce anxiety and provide an overall physical improvement as well.
- Improved Relationships: Therapy can improve more than just mental health, but can assist with the task of improving communication and resolving relationship conflict (whether with family members or caregivers).
How to Start Therapy for Seniors?
To some older adults, the thought of going to therapy may seem overwhelming. They may believe that therapy is only for those who have serious mental health problems or that it is too late in their lives to make any improvements through therapy. The unique aspect of therapy is that it is never too late for anyone to start therapy. It can be an excellent tool to improve the mental health of older adults.
After careful consideration of therapy for an elderly loved one, the first steps are outlined below to assist in the process:
- Discuss with a Medical Professional: If you or a loved one is experiencing emotional wellness concerns, it may be beneficial to start the conversation with a primary care doctor, to evaluate if therapy can help. They will be able to evaluate the situation, and if considered appropriate, have providers to refer.
- Research a Geriatric Therapist: If you determine to pursue therapy for that older adult, then important consideration is to ensure you are finding a therapist who specializes in geriatrics. Geriatric therapy may allow the older adult to work with professionals who have experience working with an older adult population. You may be able to find some strategies that will address the unique challenges encountered by older adults.
- Gather Current or Supportive Treatment Options: There are various forms of therapy that may be appropriate for an older adult, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or group therapy, and even art therapy. Do work collaboratively with the therapist to determine which may be the most effective for treatment.
- Family Support: Family members can sometimes be the most important motivators to get seniors to receive treatment. With the involvement of family members, the process can be less scary, and they can be supportive.
Elderly Mental Health Assistance: A Critical Component of Aging Well
As important as the physical well-being of our elderly loved ones, is to equally consider their mental well-being. Seeking a therapy for the elderly can be an important step to maintaining independence, managing emotional wellness, and overall well-being. Professional therapy is a holistically intended approach to aging, allowing the elderly to process life changes, transitions, and stressors at/throughout all stages of aging.
At Angel Care Inc. homecare services unit, we understand the importance of mental health for the elderly. If you or your loved one are having emotional concerns, or are looking for mental health assistance, we can assist by offering therapy and compassionate care. We strive to provide elderly mental health support to aid the elderly in aging happily and healthily and with dignity.
If you are unsure about therapy for your elderly loved one, it is possible and could be beneficial to get to know a mental health professional, who can speak to you about the mental health outcomes of elderly adults using therapy in their later years.
As we age, our bodies become increasingly susceptible to a number of diseases and bodily discomforts. For many seniors living with chronic conditions, impairment in their day-to-day life can often, if not most of the time, cause significant interruptions to their daily lives, autonomy, and quality of life in general. Managing chronic diseases in the elderly is essential not only for the maintenance of physical health, but also for emotional and mental well-being. Management of chronic illness in elderly patients, however, often requires a complex, multifaceted approach involving expert medical care, lifestyle modifications, and the ongoing support of caregivers and family. Understanding Chronic Diseases in the Elderly Chronic disease is defined as any long-lasting condition that requires ongoing care. Chronic conditions include diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, chronic respiratory disease, or any neurodegenerative disorder, including Alzheimer's disease (Alzheimer's Association, 2023). Chronic illnesses are common in the older population and it is therefore important to develop a workable management plan. Effective chronic disease management is essential for older adults to maintain a good quality of life despite their complex and sometimes challenging discoveries of illness. Management of chronic disease in the elderly will often need a comprehensive multifaceted approach that is tailored specifically to the older adult's individual needs. It is important for a comprehensive plan of care take into account monitoring, supporting adjustment to medication, adoption of dietary or lifestyle interventions, and therapy that reduce manage the disease, when treatment is appropriate. Integrating all of these factors into a care plan can help manage the progression of the disease and enhance the overall quality of life for older adults. The Challenge of Chronic Illness Management for Older Adults The impact of chronic illness on the life of seniors is often significant and encompasses not only physical health, but also mental and emotional health. Older adults living with chronic illness may experience more pain than usual or increased fatigue that affects their ability to perform daily activities. These changes can impact overall well-being. In order to manage an individual's chronic illness effectively, the physical, as well as the emotional, aspects of care must be addressed. A highly functional chronic disease management plan for older adults should consist of regular medical visits, medication management, participation in physical or occupational therapy, and emotional or social support. Most importantly, a plan for chronic illness management must consider the unique health care needs of each older adult, their medical history, lifestyle and preferences. Management of Pain in Seniors One of the most difficult parts of dealing with chronic illness in older adults is pain management. Many older adults living with chronic conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, neuropathy, or other conditions that create chronic pain may find that their pain severely limits their ability to engage in activities of daily life (ADL) and diminishes their overall quality of life. Therefore, chronic pain management is an important aspect of health management for the elderly. Chronic pain management involves multiple strategies such as medication management, physical therapy, or complementary treatments including acupuncture and massage. Seniors should work with their healthcare team to develop a customized pain management strategy which may involve consulting with a pain management specialist to be more comprehensive. The Role of Caregivers in Chronic Disease Management Caregivers / HHAs are a central part of the chronic disease management for seniors. Caregivers are typically the individuals that ensure that medications are taken, medical appointments are kept, and lifestyle changes that have been recommended are followed. They also bring emotional support and encouragement, which is just as important as the physical care that is offered. Caregivers help seniors establish healthy habits including preparing healthy meals, exercising regularly, and remaining socially active; this can lead to better health outcomes and an overall better experience of well-being for elderly patients. Caregiver support helps make the management of chronic diseases a process that can be more effective and compassionate. Designing a Senior Health Management Plan Managing chronic diseases in elderly patients requires an organized, comprehensive plan that consists of a few key features: Regularly Scheduled Medical Visits/Check-ups: Seniors should have regularly scheduled visits to help ensure their chronic disease is regularly monitored. This means considering any worsening of the medical problems, and adjusting medication when it is necessary. Medication Management: Medication management is an important, and potentially life-saving, consideration for seniors. Medication management means looking at the medications, evaluating for side effects, and revising the treatment plan if necessary. Activity and Lifestyle Management: Encouraging seniors to be active, eat well-balanced meals, and avoid smoking or drug use can also lead to improved health outcomes. Support Systems: A robust support system is needed to help sustain emotional well-being. A well organized support system can help to support and strengthen the senior in managing their chronic disease. Pain Management: Seniors may experience chronic pain and when they do, it is important to develop a pain management strategy that will improve comfort and functioning. A well designed plan for managing chronic diseases process for seniors creates a management program that recognizes the medical management, but also include lifestyle changes and organization strategies for caring for seniors who may have a number of illnesses that may need to be addressed. Chronic disease management for seniors is an ongoing process despite the importance of physical health, emotional health may be just as important. Living the Best Life Possible with Chronic Disease Management Seniors can live with meaning and satisfaction when under the appropriate medical management and holistic approach with chronic disease management plan. This may include chronic pain management or emotional support; all of which a well-designed plan of care can contribute to improve comfort, mobility, and independence in older adults. Improved strategies for managing chronic disease can improve the physical and emotional aging experience. If you are looking for assistance with chronic disease management, senior health support, or home care services, Angel Care Inc., provides care that is compassionate, reliable, and dedicated to providing care for your loved one. We will ensure that support is given to your loved one as part of their journey in living a healthy and happy life, whatever the burden of disease.
