Celebrating May as
Older Americans Month

The American population is aging. By 2030, there will be approximately 75 million Americans aged 65 and over. Consequently, there will be an increase in the number of older adults in need of treatment for serious emotional health and substance use disorders. If left untreated, these intrusive symptoms can have a significant impact on your health and lower your quality of life.

Mental health has a tremendous impact on healthcare needs and the unique needs of seniors also requires unique intervention. The month of May is a great time to refocus on the emotional and behavioral needs of seniors in the United States. Every year, May is celebrated as both Older Americans Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, what a wonderful time to focus on both.

Recognizing Challenges for Older Adults

Like all phases of life, aging has its challenges. There can be wonderful and advantageous aspects of turning 65 and beyond, including grandchildren, senior discounts, wisdom, and more. Reviewing all the accomplishments, adventures, gains, places and dreams that shaped life itself can help many senior adults realize what they have contributed and can continue to gain from life.

As you age, you can be at increased risk of developing emotional, neurological or substance use disorders along with other physical health conditions. Prompt recognition and treatment of these disorders can be imperative.

Prevalent Emotional Health Conditions in Older Adults

Approximately 20 percent of adults over 55 years of age report having experienced some type of emotional health concern, though not all of these individuals will recognize their symptoms or receive treatment. The most common conditions that emerge as we age can include dementia, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use and even self-injury.

In older adults, emotional health disorders are frequently comorbid with a number of common chronic health problems, such as respiratory conditions, digestive diseases, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and more. Seniors are more likely to emphasize the physical symptoms than emotional, which can delay adequate treatment.

Triggers and Symptoms of Emotional Health Concerns

The following potential triggers can increase risk:

  • Alcohol or substance abuse
  • Change of environment, like relocation or moving into assisted living
  • Dementia
  • Illness
  • Death of a loved one
  • Medication side effects
  • Physical disability
  • Poor diet or malnutrition

Change is inevitable; however, the above triggers can lead to symptoms of concern such as:

  • Frequent confusion, disorientation, concentration or decision-making difficulties
  • Significant changes in appearance, clothing preferences, or hygienic practices
  • Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
  • Persistent depressive mood
  • Feelings of worthlessness and helplessness
  • Irrational guilt
  • Memory loss, especially of recent or short-term events
  • Unexplained physical pains, fatigue, or energy loss
  • Social withdrawal or isolation
  • Trouble with financial matters

Counseling and Aging

A major part of healthy aging is a sense of positive emotional well-being. The assumption that emotional health problems typically accompany aging is simply not true. You are not alone, therapy can help.

Carolina Counseling Services – Fuquay-Varina, NC celebrates Older Americans Month by bringing awareness to your unique needs. Let CCS connect you with a therapist that can help you to maintain and increase your emotional wellness. When you work with the therapist that is right for you it is possible to explore what is holding you back from the life you want. Call CCS – Fuquay-Varina, NC to schedule your first appointment.

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