Challenges And Solutions In Supporting Elderly Family Members' Mental Health

It’s thought that over 20% of adults over the age of 60 live with mental or neurological disorders. As loved ones age, many families may need to help them manage mental health concerns. While older adults typically have a higher risk of mental health disorders, such as anxiety and depression, they tend to be less likely to seek professional support. 

With many older adults being central figures in families, such as parents or grandparents, family support can be a helpful part of maintaining mental health. Family members can provide emotional support and ensure that older adults have access to necessary mental health resources. They can also help with practical tasks, staying socially active, and seeking professional help when needed. However, caregiving can come with increased stress levels, and individuals offering support to older family members may benefit from seeking the guidance of a licensed mental health professional.

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Mental health challenges older family members may face

Older adults might experience different mental health challenges due to various factors, including aging, social changes, and medical conditions. These mental health concerns can affect their quality of life and often require attention from family members and healthcare providers.

The severity of symptoms can vary among individuals. For example, mental health challenges may start with mild symptoms but can progress if left untreated. Therefore, detecting mental health difficulties early can be crucial.

Depression

Depression can be a common mental health disorder among older adults. This condition can involve persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and a sense of hopelessness. It may be triggered by major life changes, such as retirement or the loss of a loved one. There can be several risk factors for depression in older adults, including chronic illness, physical disability, and social isolation. Symptoms may also include changes in appetite, sleep problems, and trouble focusing.

Anxiety 

Anxiety disorders can be another concern for the elderly. These disorders can include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and phobias. Anxiety may lead to excessive worry, restlessness, and physical symptoms, like an increased heart rate. Risk factors for anxiety in older adults may include a history of trauma and chronic medical conditions.

Alzheimer's disease 

Alzheimer's disease, a type of dementia, typically affects memory and cognitive abilities. It usually progresses over time and often starts with mild memory loss, eventually leading to severe cognitive impairments. Patients may struggle with daily tasks, communication, and recognizing loved ones. Symptoms for which to watch include memory lapses, confusion about time or place, and changes in behavior.

Sleep disorders 

Sleep disorders can be common among older adults and include insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless legs syndrome. These disorders may cause poor sleep quality, which can negatively affect mental and physical health. Chronic sleep problems can worsen symptoms of depression and anxiety. Symptoms of sleep disorders usually include difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early.

Grief and loss 

Older adults often experience grief and loss, particularly due to the death of loved ones or significant life changes. This grief can lead to deep sadness, appetite changes, and difficulty sleeping. Long-term or complicated grief may turn into depression or anxiety. Family members may want to recognize the stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—although they may not always occur in this order.

Alcohol or substance use disorders 

Alcohol or substance use disorders can greatly affect the mental and physical health of older adults. These disorders may stem from attempts to self-medicate for anxiety, depression, or chronic pain. Increased tolerance or dependence can develop and lead to health complications over time. Signs of alcohol or substance use disorders may include changes in behavior and neglect of responsibilities.

Challenges of providing support for older family members 

Communication barriers

When caregivers communicate with older family members, especially those with hearing loss or cognitive decline, problems may arise. Misunderstandings can cause frustration and stress. For example, older adults with dementia might find it hard to express their needs, which may lead to confusion. Using simple language, making eye contact, and using nonverbal cues may improve communication when it comes to caring for older family members.

Balancing work and caregiving responsibilities

Family caregivers of older adults may have to balance their jobs with caregiving responsibilities, potentially leading to stress and time constraints. Managing both roles might also lead to burnout and decreased job performance. For example, caregivers may need to leave work early for medical appointments, causing them to lose productivity at work. Flexible work options or employer support programs for caregivers may offer some assistance in such circumstances.

Financial concerns

Caring for an elderly family member can be financially draining due to medical expenses, long-term care, and the possible loss of income from reduced work hours. Many family caregivers cover healthcare expenses without reimbursement. This financial strain can be overwhelming, leaving little room for other expenses. Seeking government aid or planning for long-term care insurance are potential ways to reduce these financial difficulties.

Family dynamics and conflicts

Family caregiving can strain relationships, particularly when multiple members are involved in decision-making. Disagreements about care routines or finances can lead to tension. For instance, siblings may disagree on primary caregiving roles. Openly communicating with one another may help manage these conflicts and ensure everyone's opinions are heard.

Ways to provide support for older family members

Supporting elderly family members can involve different strategies to help them maintain their mental health and overall quality of life. Family members can assist by helping with daily tasks, monitoring health, and providing emotional support, among other strategies.

Assist with daily tasks

Helping with daily tasks may reduce stress for older adults and their caregivers. These tasks may include cooking, cleaning, shopping, and managing medications. Assistance with these tasks may help older family members maintain their independence in a safe way.

Family members can create a schedule to share these responsibilities or hire professional caregivers. Simple gestures, like organizing the home to reduce fall risks or setting up medication reminders, may protect physical health and provide a sense of security.

Monitor health

Regularly monitoring health might involve keeping track of medical appointments, medications, and any changes in physical or mental health. Detecting health problems early may improve the chances of better treatment outcomes.

Family members can use tools like health apps or written schedules to stay organized. You may want to have regular conversations about health and attend medical appointments together to ensure that health concerns are promptly addressed.

Provide emotional support during difficult times

Emotional support can be key, especially during challenging periods. This type of support might include actively listening and being available to discuss feelings and concerns. Emotional support may help manage loneliness and improve mental health.

Family members can organize regular visits or virtual check-ins, participate in hobbies together, or join support groups. These activities may create opportunities for meaningful interactions and reinforce the family member's sense of belonging and emotional well-being.

Help with decision-making

Older adults with mental health challenges may also need help with decision-making, especially regarding healthcare, financial support, and long-term care. Offering help may ensure that these decisions are made in the best interest of your loved one’s health.

Family members can discuss and provide clarity on various options. Seeking support services from professionals like lawyers or financial advisors can also help. That way, older adults can make appropriate decisions and remain involved in their own lives.

These are a few ways to offer direct support to an older family member living with a mental illness. It can be best to have an open conversation with them to find out exactly what kind of support might benefit them. 

Find support online for family-related stress

Older adults and family caregivers may experience increased stress and mental health challenges. Platforms like BetterHelp can connect users with licensed therapists, making professional help accessible from the comfort of home. This can be particularly useful for those who may struggle with transportation or prefer the convenience of at-home counseling sessions.

For elderly family members experiencing mental health challenges, such as dementia and depression, online therapy may offer several benefits. A 2021 study found that online cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may reduce symptoms of mild to moderate depression in older adults. This type of therapy typically provides structured sessions focused on changing negative thought patterns and teaching coping skills that may be especially helpful for elderly patients.