by Arul John 2 of 4 articles
Mental health disorders affect about 20 per cent of elderly adults in the US,, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the percentage is similar in Singapore.
With the added concerns of the current coronavirus pandemic, it is important to pay careful attention to your ageing loved one’s mental health as the elderly may be more susceptible to mental health disorders during this time.
Isolation due to essential physical distancing preventive measures and concerns over their increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 can take a toll on seniors’ mental health.
But with knowledge and watchfulness, you can assess your senior loved one’s safety and well-being, and stay aware of their emotional and mental health.
Getting things straight about ageing
Elderly people are less likely to seek help for mental health issues compared to younger people.
The most common mental health issue among the elderly is severe cognitive impairment or dementia. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, about 5 million adults aged 65 and older have Alzheimer’s disease — about 10 per cent of seniors.
Depression and mood disorders affect up to 5 per cent of seniors 65 and older living in the community, and up to 13.5 per cent of older adults who receive home healthcare or are hospitalised.
Anxiety disorders often go along with depression. These include a range of issues, from hoarding syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder to phobias and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Nearly 10 per cent of those older than 65 have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, says the Ministry of Health.
Senior risk factors for mental health disorders
According to the World Health Organization and the Geriatric Mental Health Foundation, potential triggers for mental illness in the elderly include:
● Alcohol or substance abuse
● Dementia-causing illness (e.g. Alzheimer’s disease)
● Illness or loss of a loved one
● Long-term illness (e.g., cancer or heart disease)
● Chronic pain
● Medication interactions
● Physical disability or loss of mobility
● Physical illnesses that can affect emotion, memory and thought
● Poor diet or malnutrition
Assessing mental health in seniors
One of the ongoing problems with diagnosing and treating mental illness in seniors is that older adults are more likely to report physical symptoms instead of psychiatric complaints.
Certain elderly behavioural problems may indicate mental health disorders so be aware of any changes in these five areas to determine whether a consultation with a doctor is necessary:
● Life tasks and self-care activities such as dressing, preparing meals, or using the phone
● Safety, including financial safety and driving
● Physical health, including pain or uncomfortable symptoms, hospitalisations, or loss of appetite
● Emotional health such as feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy, or isolation
● Medication safety, including skipping medications, and worrisome side effects or symptoms related to medications
Symptoms of mental illness in the elderly
As loved ones age, it is natural for some changes to occur. But persistent cognitive or memory loss is potentially serious.
The same goes for extreme anxiety or long-term depression.
Caregivers should therefore watch for the following warning signs, which could indicate a mental health concern:
● Changes in appearance or dress, or problems maintaining the home or yard.
● Confusion, disorientation, problems with concentration or decision-making.
● Changes in appetite; changes in weight.
● Depressed moods lasting longer than two weeks.
● Memory loss, especially recent or short-term memory problems.
● Unexplained physical problems, aches, constipation
● Social withdrawal; loss of interest in things that used to be enjoyable.
● Trouble handling finances or working with numbers.
● Unexplained fatigue, energy loss or sleep changes.
During these times of social distancing, keep close watch on your ageing loved ones when you are interacting with them, so as to spot signs they need help.
Do not hesitate to seek medical help if you notice that your loved one is experiencing any of the above symptoms.