Understanding Senior Behavioral Health: What Families Should Know
A post by the National Council on Aging says that one in five Americans will experience a mental health issue in their lifetime. With such an alarming number of people expected to face mental health challenges, it's no surprise that senior behavioral health is becoming a growing concern.
Luckily, there are many resources for families in Midwest City, OK, to explore. The location offers the comfort of easy town living, along with recreational options, making it a wise choice if your loved one needs senior care.
Here, we'll help you recognize behavioral health changes and their connection to the aging process. We'll also explore how assisted living communities can support your loved one.
The Signs of Senior Behavioral Health Changes
Emotional and psychological shifts are common, but not all changes are a normal part of aging. Some may indicate that your loved one's health is declining, so it's vital to know what to look out for.
Here are some common signs of behavioral changes in elderly loved ones:
- Increased isolation
- Withdrawal from their favorite activities
- Rapid mood swings and irritability
- Sleep disturbances
- Neglected personal hygiene
Recognizing behavioral symptoms of declining mental health will help you know when it's time to consider supportive environments. Besides, it ensures your loved one receives care before their condition worsens.
Why Aging Affects Mental and Emotional Health
Aging and mental health relate closely in many ways. For example, as your loved one gets older, they go through significant life events like retirement and bereavement.
In some cases, they might feel left out of family decisions, especially if they no longer live at home. All these issues may then trigger anxiety or depression even if your loved one never struggled with the conditions before.
How Assisted Living Supports Emotional Wellness
Most seniors residing in Midwest City live far from family and may not have close neighbors to check in on them regularly. Moving your loved one into a community with trained staff like Morada Midwest City will help you stay on top of their mental health needs.
The caregivers can notice early signs of declining mental health and offer the proper support. They will also provide tailored care, helping your loved one feel more hopeful and emotionally balanced.
Choosing the right assisted living community for your loved one will improve their quality of life. They will participate in engaging activities to promote connection and fight loneliness.
For instance, they can take evening walks with other seniors and catch up on their day. They may also learn new hobbies and participate in group games to keep their minds and bodies active. Other ways assisted living in Midwest City supports emotional wellness include:
- Offering regular mental health check-ins
- Creating a safe, welcoming environment to promote relaxation
- Encouraging interactions through social clubs
A daily routine provides a sense of stability and purpose, which is vital for seniors dealing with memory loss and mood changes. Senior living communities such as Morada Midwest City offer a structured environment.
Your loved one will know what to expect during their day just by checking the activity calendar. Hence, they'll be less likely to fall into cycles of isolation, confusion, or distress.
Exploring Opportunities for Senior Engagement in Midwest City
Staying connected to the local community is critical for many seniors as they age. At Morada Midwest City, we help your loved one stay engaged and involved in the community. Our team encourages residents to participate in nearby activities to have fun and improve their mental health.
Your loved one can attend events at the Nick Harroz Community Center, which hosts fitness classes and social gatherings. They may also check out other local attractions and amenities like:
- Joe B. Barnes Regional Park
- Midwest City Library
- Veterans Memorial Park
Exploring these locations will enable your loved one to stay active and make new friends. It also helps them enjoy meaningful experiences, which will promote holistic wellness as they age.
When to Consider Senior Care for Your Loved One
Behavioral health issues can progress if your loved one doesn't get the necessary care and treatment. Knowing when to explore senior living in Midwest City will ensure your loved one gets timely care and professional support.
Further, it gives you peace of mind knowing they are in the care of experts specialized in physical and emotional wellness for seniors. Here are signs indicating you should consider senior care for your loved one:
- Ongoing confusion
- Significant personality shifts
- Refusal to engage with family and friends
- Difficulty managing medications
When thinking about senior care, you may worry that your loved one will lose their freedom. At Morada Midwest City, we enhance independence by removing the burden of daily chores and home maintenance.
Our residents enjoy access to community amenities like chef-prepared meals and fitness classes. Instead of struggling alone, your loved one can thrive with daily structure and support tailored to their needs.
Tips for Supporting Your Loved One Emotionally
If you're caring for your loved one at home or supporting them in assisted living in Midwest City, there are many ways you can be helpful as they navigate behavioral health changes. Use the following senior support tips:
- Stay in touch regularly
- Encourage them to keep up with their hobbies
- Share meals
- Involve them when making decisions
Fresh air and sunlight can do wonders for your loved one's mood and mental health. When visiting them at Morada Midwest City, spend time in the outdoor spaces. You can also take them on a peaceful stroll in local spots like Joe B. Barnes Regional Park, which is just minutes away.
Being outdoors offers meaningful bonding time and a change of environment, helping your loved one feel less anxious or sad.
Achieving Optimal Emotional Wellness in Seniors With Expert Care
Senior behavioral health is becoming a vital topic as more families learn about the emotional challenges associated with aging. Watch out for signs of declining mental health in your loved one and get support early. Moreover, consider senior care to support their independence and improve access to socialization opportunities.
At Morada Midwest City, we offer unparalleled care to seniors seeking a supportive and vibrant community. Our programs provide engagement and personal growth, which are essential to emotional well-being. Contact us to see how we help seniors thrive.