In this world, there is nothing permanent except change. Yes, change is inevitable, and it knocks out everything and everyone.
We humans also modify or transform with time. Today’s youth will be tomorrow’s old man. The fun fact about aging is that “aging is not an option, not for anyone.”
As a result, it is important for us to learn to respect our elders, because they are the ones who have helped us be the way we are and try to make the world a better place to live.
The researchers predict that by 2050, the current elderly population of 153 million (aged 60 and above) will increase to a staggering 347 million.
Therefore, it is crucial for us to understand their needs and the physical and mental health challenges they face on a daily basis.
One of the biggest issues we as a society face is our assumption that many mental health issues among the elderly are simply signs and parts of aging; we often tend to consider them as part of the process.
Factors Lead to Mental Issues Among the Elderly
Several factors can impact the psychological health of the elderly. Some of these are:
Dependency:
After retirement, it is common for the working class to suddenly feel that they have lost their decision-making power and are now dependent on their children.
It affects their self-resilience and leads to a lack of self-confidence, resulting in depression and anxiety.
Loneliness:
Due to Western culture’s influence, the new generation prefers to live in nuclear families. India’s joint family culture is disappearing day by day, leaving elders alone.
This loneliness not only makes them sad and unhappy but also creates other mental health issues.
Importance of Savings:
If a person’s savings are insufficient after retirement or if they have spent all of their income on their child, they may find themselves dependent on their child in old age.
In such situations, it is very common that they feel helpless, leading to feelings of depression and sorrow among the elderly.
The study Focuses on Indicators of Mental illness Among the Elderly.
A child and an old person are quite similar, as they both need love, care, and an ample amount of attention.
Hence, it is better to be more observant and notice any change in their behavior. This makes it easier to diagnose mental health issues early, allowing one to seek treatment at an early stage.
The following are some common symptoms that indicate the presence of mental health issues among the elderly:
- People are losing interest in their own hobbies or interacting with new individuals. Instead of sitting alone, I try to avoid any social gatherings.
- Feeling worthless.
- I am feeling overwhelmed and neglected within the family.
- Symptoms of amnesia and blackout.
- Lack of certainty and bafflement.
- Problems with concentration or decision-making.
- There could be a sudden decrease in weight or a notable increase in weight.
- Irregular sleeping cycle including difficulty in sleeping.
- Lack of energy or getting tired quickly.
- Using suicidal words or thoughts in general conversation.
- Feeling unhappy or downhearted for more than 2 weeks.
Things That You Can Do To Help Them
- Always try to take some time from your busy schedule and sit with them. Talk to them about their day, ask them to share any incident from the past or walk with them into their memory lane. This might work as an effective therapy.
- Teach your kids to respect and play with elderly.
- Tell them about the new gadgets and technology in the market as this will boost their confidence and reduce their feeling of loneliness.
- Tell them how their efforts made your life easy and how much you credit them for your success.
- Try and discuss the important life decisions with them as it will give them a feeling of being worthy and useful.
Seek Medical Help
If you have an adult at home who has any of the above symptoms or you feel he has been going through a mental illness for a long time, please reach out to us at Athena Behavioral Health.
We would be more than happy to provide the best care needed by them as we have the skilled staff and best health experts.
We are here to help you, and your near and dear ones. If you would like to get a consultation on treatment facilities from a professional.
Please reach us through email at customercare@athenabhs.com or call us at +91 9289086193. It is our privilege to take the pain out of yours!
Also Read:
Role of Colors and Mental Illness
Clothes Can Impact An Individual’s Mental Health
Role of Mindfulness in Maintaining Mental Health
Common Ways in Which Schizophrenia Can Impact One’s Daily Life
