Senior Mental Health and the Benefits of Therapy
Q&A with a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
In Canada, those aged 65 and older make up approximately 20% of the population, and this number will continue to grow as the baby boomer generation ages. More than ever, it is important to recognize and understand the mental health of seniors and the benefits that therapy can have for this age group.
We spoke to Jennifer Murdock, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) about Seniors and Mental Health and here’s what she had to say…
Q: What is mental health?
A: Mental health can be described as a state of mental well-being that enables us to cope with life stressors and includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being.
Additionally, our mental health affects how we think, feel, and behave. Mental health is important at any stage of life, and taking care of our mental health is essential to our overall health and quality of life. When it comes to seniors, mental health concerns are often overlooked and passed off as "normal" aging. It is important to note that anxiety and depression are not a part of "normal" aging, and they should be addressed just as they would for any other age group.
Q: What should I know about senior mental health?
A: Statistics show that 1 in 4 seniors experience some type of mental health disorder or concern.
While depression and anxiety are the most common, they are not the only mental health concerns that seniors can struggle with. Many seniors are exposed to adversity, significant loss, and a decline in their functional ability. As a result, it can be more challenging for seniors to maintain social connections, leading to social isolation and loneliness. Those who are socially isolated and lonely are not only more susceptible to depression, but they are also at a greater risk of heart disease and cognitive decline. It is imperative that seniors receive support for their mental health concerns so that they can carry on living a fulfilling life.
Q: How can therapy help seniors?
A: Just like with any other age group, seniors can receive help and support for their mental health challenges through therapy.
One of the concerns that therapy can help with is addressing loss. Whether this is the loss of a family member or friend, the loss of independence, or the loss of functional ability, therapy can help seniors process the emotions or grief that they may be experiencing because of these losses.
Another concern that therapy can address involves lifestyle changes. Those 65 and older are at a point in their lives where they may be thinking about retiring, or they may have already retired. For some, this can be challenging, and they may feel lost or unsure of what to do with their lives now. Additionally, some seniors may be downsizing and moving into a smaller house, apartment, or retirement home and may need help to cope with these changes.
Stress is another concern that therapy can help address. While some stress is normal, constant stress can affect the brain and memory, which can lead to an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Therapy can teach seniors techniques that can help them manage their stress, resulting in lower levels of stress and increased emotional stability.
Dealing with these challenges alone can be difficult, and seniors are encouraged to reach out for help or support when they need it. Speaking to a mental health professional is an effective way to help sort through these challenges and improve quality of life.
Q: How can therapy benefit seniors?
A: Attending therapy offers several benefits to seniors, just as it does for those of a younger age. Therapy can help older adults understand that despite some of these challenges they are faced with, they can continue to maintain a positive outlook on life.
Therapy can also aid seniors in coming to terms with health issues and teach them how to manage the stress of a new diagnosis. A physical health problem, sickness or change in mobility can take a toll on one's mental health. By learning how to accept and address unfavourable health issues, seniors will be in a position where they can better take care of themselves and improve their quality of life.
As we age, loss unfortunately becomes more common, but that doesn't make it any easier to deal with. As mentioned previously, therapy can be beneficial to seniors as it helps them learn how to process loss and work through their grief.
Another benefit of therapy is that it can help strengthen cognitive function. To help prevent or slow cognitive decline, we need to exercise the mind. As therapy typically involves conversation, the discussions can help keep the mind sharp.
Q: How do I approach my parent if I think they need therapy?
A: The first thing you’ll want to do is talk with your parents when you see signs that they’re dealing with a mental illness. Having a conversation about mental illness can be a touchy subject, so it’s best to try to:
Keep a calm tone and voice
Ask them questions about their health instead of telling them what’s wrong
Choose a time when both parties are calm
Expect resistance and don’t take outbursts personally
Stay patient and understanding
If the conversation gets tense or doesn’t go well the first time, that’s okay. You can always step away and look for another time to re-engage.
Talking with a medical professional can also be helpful - especially when caring for a mentally ill elderly parent. These professionals could be a doctor, psychologist, therapist, or combination of these. They can help you if you’re wondering how to get an elderly parent evaluated.
Medical doctor: A medical doctor can provide insight into how your parent’s physical body is behaving. They can help prescribe medications or promote a healthy lifestyle.
Psychologist: A psychologist can give your parents expert insight into the brain and behavior changes. Psychology elderly care can help you know what to expect from your parents on a mental level.
Therapist: Seeing a trained therapist can be helpful for you or your parents. They can help you understand and manage the stress of caregiving. A therapist can assist your parents in dealing with their changes, too.
Any of these experts can help you and your parents better understand your parents’ condition and the care they need. Connecting with a medical professional is also an excellent way to have your parents hear about their condition from a respected, third-party individual.
In summary, therapy and mental health support can be helpful and even life-changing to people of all ages, seniors included. While seniors can often be overlooked as needing this type of support, the right therapist can prove to be very beneficial to support those managing the unique challenges of being an older adult. If you know a senior, consider how they might benefit from speaking to a therapist.
Whatever it is, we’re here for you.♡
Life is uncertain. Jobs are stressful. Parenting is hard. Relationships take work. Families can be dysfunctional. And sometimes, love hurts. When you’re confronted by feelings, events, or issues that are making your life challenging, it’s okay to ask for some help.
