It’s no secret that aging goes hand in hand with physical health issues, and when looking for the proper care facility for your aging loved one, the obvious questions to ask are those about bodily health. Mental health issues tend to be less easily spotted and identified. An excellent senior living facility must recognize and manage both physical and mental health needs. Here’s why mental health care is so important for seniors.
Unresolved Issues
In healthcare terms, mental health is a relatively new science. Many treatments for common mental ailments didn’t exist when today’s seniors were younger. For example, according to Mental Health America, more than two million of the 34 million Americans over 65 suffer from depression. Treating depression may be commonplace for younger individuals, but it can be intimidating to a senior. Other conditions, such as ADHD, autism, or C-PTSD, can go undiagnosed in Americans of all ages. A senior living facility that understands how to identify, explain, and manage mental health conditions among aging residents is essential for comprehensive care.
Mind and Body
Physical health and mental health are linked. The power of healthy thinking is well-known, but it goes deeper than that. A patient who has dementia or the early stages of Alzheimer’s can become confused and distressed, and this can impact their physical well-being. A great senior living facility must go beyond calming a distressed resident and additionally ensure that their physical needs are met. The staff must know how to manage the mental health of their residents to ensure they get the most joy out of their later years.
End Of Life Care
The sad reality of aging is that no one lives forever. Finding a senior living facility to care for a loved one is a firm reminder of that. No matter how compassionate you are and how clear-minded they are, thinking about death is difficult. It’s natural for both of you to avoid the conversation, but talking about it can help them find peace at the end of their life. Experts can help seniors process complex emotions about mortality and give you both more freedom to enjoy your time together.
Finding a perfect senior living facility for a loved one is one of the hardest things you will ever have to do. Seniors deserve comprehensive and compassionate care. Be sure that the facility you choose takes care of your loved one’s mental health in addition to their physical health. Contact DeSoto Palms Assisted Living Facility today to learn more about how we ensure that our residents’ mental health needs are met.