In the United States, roughly 15.5% of people aged 65 and older have had a diagnosis of depressive disorder from a health professional. That number has risen slightly over the years, likely due to better mental health awareness among seniors.
The problem is that not every senior knows how to handle depression or other mental health disorders. Bellefontaine, OH, has many beautiful parks to explore and distract the mind. However, it's not always enough.
These are some of the many coping mechanisms for depression that seniors can use.
Depression among older adults is often misunderstood or misdiagnosed. Many seniors and caregivers mistake symptoms for "normal" aging or dismiss them as signs of physical ailments. However, aging and mood changes should not be taken lightly.
Seniors can develop depression due to several different factors, such as grief and loneliness. Identifying early signs is essential to provide timely support. Some common signs include:
Emotional care refers to the practices that support a person's emotional well-being.
In senior living, this means creating a compassionate and empathetic environment. Encourage residents to express their feelings instead of holding them in. They should maintain social connections and access psychological support when needed.
Compassionate caregivers and mental health services are integral to effective emotional care. Staff in assisted living settings need to recognize behavioral shifts and react accordingly.
Keep in mind that simple practices like active listening and validating feelings can do a lot in easing emotional distress.
Establishing consistent routines is a powerful way to cope with your depression. These routines promote a sense of structure, purpose, and self-care.
These are just some of the wellness practices that prove beneficial for everyday life.
Exercise is good for both the body and the mind. Activities like walking, stretching, and yoga release endorphins. These endorphins are natural mood lifters that combat depression.
Most senior living communities offer scheduled exercise programs tailored to residents' abilities. They also often allow seniors to form their own walking groups or yoga classes to encourage socialization.
A balanced diet supports both physical and emotional health. You want to include plenty of fruits and vegetables. Lean meats and whole grains also help provide the right nutrients for a healthy body.
Deficiencies in nutrients like vitamin B12 or Omega-3 fatty acids can worsen symptoms of depression. Many senior living communities provide dietitian-approved meals that cater to individual health needs.
Many seniors struggle with sleep disorders. Poor sleep quality can exacerbate depression and lower a person's energy levels.
Establishing healthy bedtime routines and avoiding daytime napping can help enhance sleep quality. It also helps to minimize caffeine or electronics before bed.
Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and guided imagery help reduce stress and bring calmness. Group sessions or one-on-one sessions are increasingly available in senior living communities. Seniors are encouraged to try them when needed.
They can also rely on online sources such as YouTube for guided meditation at home.
Isolation is a major risk factor for depression among seniors. Maintaining meaningful connections is one of the most powerful forms of support in assisted living. Seniors will also want to rely on their connections with family and friends.
Seniors living communities offer plenty of opportunities for residents to spend time together. They often host group activities like game nights, arts and crafts, and book clubs. These events provide opportunities for seniors to bond and develop friendships.
Family visits, phone calls, and video chats can significantly improve a senior's mood. Many senior living communities host family days or special events to keep loved ones connected to residents.
If possible, seniors can explore the town with their grandkids. It even helps to simply play a board game at home with people they care about.
Access to group or individual counseling helps residents express their feelings in a safe environment. This is especially important for seniors who may struggle to open up to people they know.
Regular counseling sessions serve as essential tools in managing depression. During them, seniors can learn and build coping skills to deal with stress.
A key component of emotional care is the ability to maintain a sense of purpose as you age. Retirement or the loss of a previous role can leave some seniors feeling aimless. They need to find activities that provide a sense of contribution so they can feel useful to society again.
Volunteering or mentoring the younger generation can reinforce the feeling of being needed and valued. They can also use creative outlets like painting or writing to enable emotional expression and joy.
Whenever possible, it's important to give seniors choice and control over their daily routines. This helps to foster in them a sense of independence and dignity. Empowerment is a key defense against depression and anxiety.
Assisted living communities empower residents by allowing them to pick meals and decorate their living spaces. Seniors get to choose daily activities and healthcare providers.
In today's digital world, technology can play a role in maintaining senior mental health.
Tablet-based games and virtual reality experiences can provide entertainment in any location. Online classes allow seniors to become lifelong learners. Video therapy sessions connect residents to their therapists regardless of distance or mobility.
One of the most important aspects of technology is letting senior residents get in touch with family back home. They can maintain those social bonds with ease.
Seniors in assisted living communities have some of the best resources for addressing physical and mental health. Some of these coping mechanisms for depression can make the job much easier for staff and improve your emotional wellness at home.
Campbell Place provides lively assisted living in the Bellefontaine, OH area. Our residents have access to various community amenities such as a hair salon, apartment maintenance, and more. Reach out today with any questions and to schedule a tour of our community.