The Importance of Mental Health in Our Senior Population

Many public health efforts have continued to stress the importance of mental health and the effect it can have on our daily lives. However, there’s a specific group of people who are often overlooked in those conversations—seniors. That’s problematic, as individuals who are 65 or older account for almost 20% of the U.S. population—nearly 60 million people. In this article, we’ll explain the importance of mental health in our senior population.

Mental Health and Older Adults

Senior mental health is often overlooked, even though it is just important as mental health is for everyone else. The relationship between seniors and mental issues can actually be even more trying as individuals age and face increased difficulty with normal functions. Here are some of the main reasons why mental health in older adults is so important:

• Seniors Are at Higher Risk of Feeling Isolated – Being isolated from others can lead to feelings of depression and other mental health issues, and seniors are at a higher risk of feeling isolated as they age. It’s estimated around 25% of individuals over the age of 65 are socially isolated. When we don’t have social interactions with others, it affects our mental well-being and can negatively impact our mental health. In fact, individuals that feel socially isolated have a 50% higher chance of developing dementia.

• Cognitive Functioning Can Decrease With Age – As we age, our bodies can lose some of their functionality, including cognitive functioning. When our brain isn’t operating the same way it used to, it can affect how we process things, feel, and view situations, others, and ourselves. About 15% of individuals over the age of 60 suffer from a mental disorder. Aging can also bring about diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s that further affect brain functioning, which can increase the risk of other mental health issues developing.

• Mental Health Can Impact Overall Health – Mental health can also impact the overall health of older adults. When we feel isolated or depressed, it can increase our risk of premature death in many different ways. For example, we often turn to bad habits to try and make us feel better, like smoking, drinking, and eating. These can negatively affect our overall health and lead to things like obesity, stroke, heart disease, and even suicide.

If you or someone you know are having suicidal thoughts, please call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 9-8-8 right away. There are also specific mental health services for seniors that can help provide the support you need.

At Celebrate Senior Living, we are committed to celebrating the moments, victories, and memories that will last a lifetime for our residents and their loved ones. We are a Midwest-based foundation that serves Illinois and Indiana residents by offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing living options. We also provide three delicious, healthy meals a day to ensure our residents get the nutrients they need!

If you or a loved one are interested in senior living options, schedule a tour with us today! You can also learn more by exploring our communities, which include South Holland, Niles, and Fort Wayne, or by contacting us with any other questions!