“Caring for our seniors is the greatest responsibility we have. Those who walked before us have given so much and made possible the life we enjoy” - Senator John Hoeven A very true and apt quote; senior citizens definitely play a major role in making important contributions to the present generation and society as family members, volunteers and employees. Recent research conducted by the World Health Organization estimates that the proportion of the world’s population over 60 years of age would double between 2015 and 2050. Thereby, leading to an absolute increase from 900 million people to 2 billion people over the age of 60. These statistics further affirm the need for both effective mental and physical health care for senior citizens. A study conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that approximately 20% of individuals over the age of 55 experience some form of mental illness, such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression and cognitive issues. Amongst the above-mentioned mental health concerns, depression is the most common disorder experienced by seniors, and unfortunately, is the least recognized. Depression has a major impact on the health of these individuals and can adversely aggravate already existing physical conditions. Fortunately, the said study also states that depression is treatable in 80% of the cases. Regrettably, depressive disorders are widely ignored in older adults and are either undertreated or overlooked. Senior citizens with mental health conditions are more inclined to have poor functioning skills and find carrying out day-to-day living cumbersome and challenging. They are also less likely to seek out medical services to improve their health and outlook on life. Many social, biological and situational factors also greatly influence a senior’s mental health. Life situations like retirement, the death of a loved one, physical disability, change in financial status, poor health, etc. characterize a senior’s life. These issues can also result in loneliness, isolation, and loss of independence, which are major sources of psychological distress. Additionally, according to evidence collected by the World Health Organization, 1 in 10 seniors are subject to elder abuse. Abandonment, neglect, and abuse lead to loss of dignity and respect which can compound the psychological breakdown in the elderly. Loved ones and caregivers of senior individuals should be aware of signs that suggest a deterioration in their mental health and take immediate action to help them. Ways you can help as a caregiver:
Help For Depression If depression persists in a loved one in spite of all your efforts, therapy or counseling is recommended, as it addresses the underlying causes of depression rather than the symptoms. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act. The state of our mental health also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and how we make choices in our everyday lives. Mental health issues can negatively affect our lives, and our expert team at The Meadows is here to help. The Meadows treatment center is an excellent place to seek help for your loved one. The therapists and counselors here are well trained and extremely competent and capable in helping your loved one improve their mental health and rebuild their lives once again. Please call 866-424-5476 to learn more about our depression treatment program. Content Source Age Can Have An Impact On Mental Health
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