Top 5 Elderly Mental Health Concerns - Do Services Meet the Needs?

Rosanne Parks, BSN, MSN, Director SAGE Unit
Managed by Research Psychiatric Center

Since our SAGE Geri-Psychiatric unit deals mainly with those who are 55 years of age or older, I often do research looking for more creative ways to evaluate and engage our patients.  During one such search, I came across an article that discussed the top five mental health issues for the elderly. 

After thinking about this article and how it accurately reflects the patients that we see daily, I once again came to the conclusion that I've reached before - public/private services for the elderly mentally ill simply can not keep pace with the need. Given the increased number of seniors, the limited resources available to educate families and treat their loved ones (especially in rural areas like ours at SAGE) I'm afraid that too many aging dementia and Alzheimer's patient will continue to suffer needlessly.

The top five elderly mental health issues are:

Depression, Alzheimer's disease, Dementia, Anxiety, Suicide

 Depression- Depression is very common among the elderly, and those aged sixty five years old or older have double the depression rate of younger individuals. The loss of friends and loved ones, together with the increasing physical limitations of aging can cause depression to become severe.

Alzheimer’s Disease- Alzheimer’s disease is a big issue with aging men and health concerns, more so than with women. When men develop this condition it normally occurs earlier, progresses faster, and can become very troublesome and severe. Men are usually medicated and sedated at higher rates because of increased violence and antisocial behavior with this condition in the final stages.

Dementia- Dementia is a very real concern for the elderly. As they age, their memory starts to slide, and dementia can occur. This can range from very mild to very severe, and can make it impossible for the senior to live independently and stay safe.

Anxiety- Anxiety is one of the biggest elderly mental health issues. As seniors age they may become more anxious over the future, and this can lead to more stress and problems with nervousness and anxiety. This mental health issue affects women more than men. A common treatment may be mild sedatives or tranquilizers, but these can be habit forming and should be used with caution.

Suicide- Suicide is a very big concern with the elderly and mental health issues. By the age of eighty five, suicidal thoughts and rates for the elderly jump significantly. Partly it may be caused by physical problems and limitations, and partly may be contributed by loneliness.

http://www.nutralegacy.com/blog/general-healthcare/what-are-the-top-5-elderly-mental-health-issues/