Mental Health Stigma in Older Adults: What Families Should Know
Seniors in Morristown, TN, face a higher-than-average risk of mental health distress, according to national statistics broken down by state on America's Health Rankings. If you have an aging loved one and suspect they are experiencing mental health problems, you might wonder how to reach out to them.
It can be further complicated by mental health stigma that many in this age group associate with these conditions. If so, read on as we offer guidance on how to support a senior's mental health.
The Cause of Mental Health Stigma in Seniors
Seniors are more likely than the average population to stigmatize mental health conditions, and there is a reason for that. Seniors grew up in a time when mental health conditions weren't widely understood or discussed.
Decades ago, if someone experienced symptoms of depression or anxiety, they were more likely to be told to pull themselves together than offered a helping hand and some counseling.
It's only in recent years that the general population has begun to speak more openly and honestly about mental health. That's why younger generations often feel comfortable discussing a diagnosis. In contrast, older people will wrongly see that diagnosis as a source of shame or embarrassment.
Mental Health Conditions: What's Common in Older Adults
Mental health risks in seniors shouldn't be overlooked. With age comes new challenges that seniors may not have faced earlier in life, such as losing a loved one or transitioning from a family home to senior housing.
These significant life changes can bring worry and low moods if mental health isn't adequately addressed, leading to conditions such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Cognitive decline and early dementia symptoms
Both seniors and their families must be aware of these conditions and the risks. It's also important to know that any of these conditions, if they strike, aren't a sign of weakness but are simply a health condition that needs treatment in the same way a broken leg would.
Stigma in Memory Care and Assisted Living Environments: The Risks to Mental Health
One of the main reasons it's problematic for seniors to stigmatize mental health is that it can often slow down treatment.
If an older person is feeling low and they contemplate whether they might have depression, they may feel reluctant to talk to a family member about their feelings or arrange an appointment with a doctor or counselor. However, this has the effect of delaying treatment, and during that delay, untreated depression or anxiety can spiral and worsen.
Older adults might even try to hide the symptoms from their loved ones to avoid questions about their mental health, which could lead to them withdrawing from critical social activities.
Aging and Mental Health: The Early Signs of Problems
If an elderly loved one feels shame or embarrassment about their mental health, they are less likely to reach out to you for support. This means that you'll need to be able to recognize some of the early symptoms so that you can determine whether they require extra help.
Mental health awareness in aging adults is crucial, so look for these warning signs:
- Withdrawing from social activities
- Not taking care of their appearance or personal hygiene
- Poor sleep patterns
- A change in appetite, weight gain, or weight loss
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Loss of interest in usual routines or hobbies
Sometimes, these symptoms are mistaken for typical side effects of aging and are brushed aside. So don't overlook these small signs, especially if they are changes to your loved one's everyday habits and behaviors.
Senior Emotional Support: Having That Initial Conversation
If you know your loved one stigmatizes mental health, you might feel reluctant to broach the subject when you spot early signs of a problem. However, conversations are essential.
Try to find a space and a time that feels safe for your relative. Perhaps that's a chat over a meal or when taking a walk in the park. Choose environments and activities that feel less confrontational.
Begin by explaining your feelings without using any mental health terms or labels, but express why you feel concerned. You might want to provide some evidence here to back up what you are saying, such as: "I've noticed you've turned down social events recently, which is unusual for you".
Give your loved one the chance to talk and listen without interrupting or passing judgment. Take these conversations slowly, and don't feel tempted to jump in and try to solve the problem.
Morristown, TN: Senior Wellness Through Community Living
If you or a loved one is at risk of mental health challenges, having a safe and supportive environment like a senior living community is vital for a couple of reasons.
First, it provides you with access to proper care and support. A professional care provider who builds a relationship with you can monitor changes in behavior and mental health.
Secondly, senior living communities offer a sociable environment. Daily activities, such as arts and crafts workshops or quiz nights, help seniors connect, talk, and laugh. This can help protect emotional well-being in later life.
How Families Can Support Seniors
If your loved one is facing an emotional health challenge, there are several steps you can take to support them.
The first is to have a conversation about their feelings and to encourage a formal diagnosis. After that, you can offer some practical support. Perhaps that involves arranging to see a counselor, taking on some errands for them, or scheduling some enjoyable activities within the senior living community.
Don't forget to simply be there to listen to what they say, and invite them to family social events to avoid risks like loneliness and isolation.
Mental Health Stigma: Helping an Aging Loved One
Mental health stigma is a problem with the aging population, and can mean conditions get overlooked. If you are concerned about a loved one, speak to them with compassion and understanding and encourage them to seek professional help.
Being in a supportive senior living environment is the first step to mental wellness, so tour our Terrabella Morristown community. Enjoy small-town charm, friendly support from trained staff, and scenic views.