Older Adults and Mental Health, pt 3

If you or an elder is feeling isolated, lonely, or emotionally low, these steps that may help improve well-being:

— Visit your doctor and be honest about how you’re feeling emotionally as well as physically.
— Reach out to family and friends regularly — whether through phone calls, texts, video calls, or even letters.
— Join a local activity, take a class, or pick up an old hobby to meet new people and stay mentally active.
— Volunteer or find a cause you care about. Helping others can bring a sense of purpose and connection.
— Consider adopting a pet — animals can offer comfort and companionship.
— Stay physically active with a walking group or workout buddy.
— Check out local resources, such as senior centers or community groups, that offer support and social programs.

Clearly, mental health in later life isn’t just about mood or memory — it’s a life – or – death issue for some. While older women report more symptoms of depression, older men — especially those over 85 — are at much higher risk of suicide. Women in this age group have the lowest.

The bottom line: People who engage in meaningful, productive activities as they age … feel a sense of purpose and tend to live longer.

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