People of all ages may experience mental health issues, but seniors are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of poor mental health. Psychological issues, which may have been dormant for years, may only become apparent with age, or they can result from the challenges of adjusting to later life. Learn more about the importance and obstacles of senior mental health in the guide below.

Why Seniors Require Excellent Mental Health

Not only is mental health closely linked to age and life satisfaction, but it’s also a key component of overall physical health. Depression or anxiety resulting from physical ailments can cause seniors to neglect treatment for these issues. Poor mental health can slow the healing of wounds and injuries.

Signs of Deteriorating Mental Health

One of the difficulties in identifying mental health issues in seniors is that elderly people are much more likely to report physical rather than psychological complaints. To understand when an older loved one’s mental health is deteriorating, it’s vital to pay attention to behavior and appearances.

A depressed or anxious senior often exhibits changes in physical appearance, such as dressing unusually or weight loss or gain. The latter is often the result of over- or under-eating, a common sign of mental distress. Further signs of poor mental health are body aches or constipation and withdrawal from social situations or activities that they otherwise enjoyed.

How to Help Seniors Improve Their Mental Health

It’s important for seniors to spend time with friends and family. Isolation is a serious issue for older people, contributing to depression and sadness, so call, write, or spend time with your senior as much as possible. They may also benefit from taking up group activities with neighbors or fellow assisted living residents.

Physical activity is also vital to mental health, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Exercises like yoga or walking can improve physical health while boosting moods through a change of scenery.

The caring Mental Health providers at United Hospital District can offer further insights into the psychology of mental health for seniors. Our network of clinics includes locations in Blue Earth, Fairmont, and Wells, MN. We also offer a full range of services in counseling, physical therapy, and family medicine to address multiple concerns for seniors. To make an appointment, call us at (507) 526-7388 or visit us online for further information.