Elderly and Mental Illness, pt 2

Psychiatric illnesses in older adults have long tended to be neglected, sometimes with tragic consequences. The elderly suicide rate is higher than in any other age group, and twice the national average.

It is estimated that 40 percent of older adults with medical problems also have signs of depression. For many seniors, the process of aging in and of itself can be depressing. So depression is not a surprising result — when you understand that the elderly may be dealing with the loss of loved ones; financial concerns; feelings of neglect; and loss of independence. They also must deal with the reality that their bodies are breaking down.

Watch out for your elderly parents and seniors in the community. Depression is not just a simple case of a bad mood. Rather, it may continue with an individual for weeks at a time. A general malaise may set in.

Signs to watch out for include a loss or lack of concentration, sleep, appetite, and interest.

JD Miller

About JD Miller

John D. Miller is the founder/owner of Home Care Partners, LLC, a Massachusetts business providing private duty, personalized in-home assistance and companion care services to those needing help in daily activities and household functions. Phone: (781) 378-2164 Email: [email protected] Website: https://homecarepartnersma.com
SHARE IT:

Comments are closed.