Mental illness is a common, though often ignored, malady in older adults. The World Health Organization found that, as of 2013, approximately 15% of adults over the age of 60 suffer from a mental disorder. Unfortunately, many people confuse symptoms of mental illness with normal signs of aging. Show
Mental illnesses are diseases that cause mild-to-severe disturbances in thought and/or behavior, resulting in an inability to cope with life’s ordinary demands or routines. Common mental illnesses that are prevalent in the elderly include depression, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, anxiety, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Just how prevalent are these illnesses? 6 million Americans over the age of 65 are affected by depression and as many as 5 million may have Alzheimer’s. Being educated about the warning signs can help make detection of mental illness easier for loved ones and care givers. Below are four of the biggest early warning signs that an elderly person may be suffering from mental illness.  1. Memory IssuesMemory issues are incorrectly considered a normal part of the aging process by many, which causes mental illnesses to often go unrecognized until they have advanced significantly. Memory problems can be a warning sign of mental illnesses such as Alzheimer’s and dementia in older adults. Signs of this memory loss may include misplacing belongings, repeatedly asking for the same information or forgetting important dates. 2. Changes In Personal CareOften times, a person with mental health issues will stop adhering to their regular personal care routines. A noticeable change in appearance might signify that a person is unable to successfully adhere to their former routines related to personal appearance. While this will look different for everyone, changes in personal appearance that may be a sign of a mental illness include forgoing bathing or skipping previously standard personal care tasks, such as applying makeup. 3. Social WithdrawalIndividuals suffering from mental illness often become socially withdrawn. If you notice your loved one losing interest in activities that they used to be excited about or avoiding regular social engagements, it may be because they are suffering from a mental health issue that makes these things difficult. For example, they may blow off weekly card games with their friends because they are having difficulty remembering how to play. 4. Changes in MoodA change in disposition often accompanies mental illnesses, such as depression and Alzheimer’s. Your loved one may go from carefree to anxious, upbeat to depressed, or confident to confused. If these mood changes last more than a couple of weeks, there may be a more serious cause driving their altered personality. If you know a senior who is exhibiting any of these symptoms, encourage them to reach out to a professional who can help diagnose and treat mental illness. Some seniors may be reluctant to seek help on their own, making it important that you are there for them to support and encourage their treatment. As much as mental health issues have been commonly discussed in association with the younger generation, it’s impact on the senior population should not be ignored. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that the world’s population over the age of 60 will nearly double from 12 per cent in 2015 to 22 per cent in 2050. Fifteen per cent of that population, as of December 2017, were already suffering from a mental disorder. This article discusses 5 mental health issues that are common among elderly adults:
1. Depression“Depression is both underdiagnosed and undertreated in primary care settings,” according to WHO. It is also the most common mental disorder among seniors, which can be caused by social isolation or be a symptom of dementia. That’s when programs like Alzheimer’s and Dementia Support or Companion Care become beneficial to aid the emotional, mental and physical well-being of seniors experiencing this condition. In a situation when an elder feels alone, it is important to remember that not only is a companion needed but a friend. People can still feel alone even if they are surrounded by others, but even one confidant or source of support can make the difference in how a person feels or sees themselves. Family members or the client themself should be open to choosing who they’d like to work with and must be open to making changes if they don’t feel comfortable with their companion, nurse or caregiver. 2. Bipolar DisorderLate-onset bipolar can be difficult to diagnose due to its similarities to dementia. Its symptoms can include manic behaviour, delusions, confusion, hyperactivity, psychosis, agitation and cognitive issues like memory problems, loss of judgment and perception. Since these symptoms are also commonly experienced when someone ages, it makes it a difficult condition to diagnose and can usually be misdiagnosed among the elder population. 3. SchizophreniaLate-onset schizophrenia also has symptoms similar to dementia like hallucinations and paranoia, and can be experienced by adults after the age of 45. Schizophrenia, however, can still occur at any age and currently affects 20 million people worldwide. This chronic and severe mental disorder is characterized by distortions in thinking, perception, emotions, language, sense of self and behaviour, according to WHO. Common experiences include hallucinations, hearing voices and having delusions — fixed, false beliefs. People with schizophrenia are two to three times more likely to die early due to physical diseases like cardiovascular disease, metabolic disease or an infection, all of which are preventable. Schizophrenia is a treatable condition, and that’s the good news, as medicines and psychosocial support have been seen to be effective treatments. Assisted living, supported housing and employment are some effective ways to manage living with schizophrenia. It is unfortunate that stigma and discrimination are common experiences of people living with this condition. It makes it even more important to find the right care, companion and support for those that are vulnerable to discriminatory behaviour. 4. Anxiety DisorderAnxiety is a very common disorder among the elderly, similar to depression. In fact, according to the CDC, nearly half of older adults with anxiety also suffer from depression. Although anxiety disorder is linked to multiple factors like sleeping problems, poor health, medical side effects, alcohol abuse, drugs, physical impairments, stress, trauma and more. General anxiety disorder is all about consistent worry or fear which progressively gets worse over time. Here are some symptoms to look out for:
These symptoms can affect how a person socializes, works and performs daily activities. It is important for elders to seek home care, medical or emotional support or even therapy, if possible, to prevent the worsening of this condition. 5. Eating DisorderBulimia and anorexia nervosa are common eating disorders that can prevail among seniors. Behaviours and psychological issues that worsen these conditions can go undetected, making it even more dangerous. Here are some symptoms to look out for:
If family members no longer live in close proximity to an elder or if an elder requires supervision or assistance in their day-to-day life, it is important to give them access to meaningful resources. Home care continues to be a solution families turn to as it takes away the effort of seeking care from the client and brings the care straight to their homes. If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health, please call 1-877-303-2642 (toll free) if you reside within Alberta. The mental health crisis telephone line 902-429-8167 is also available for all Canadians. What is the most common mental disorder in older adults?The Significance of Depression Depression, a type of mood disorder, is the most prevalent mental health problem among older adults. It is associated with distress and suffering (4).
What is the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder?The most common are anxiety disorders major depression and bipolar disorder. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, this disorder is highly treatable, but only around 37 percent of those affected actually receive treatment.
What is the most common mental illness among US adults?You Are Not Alone. Major Depressive Episode: 8.4% (21 million people). Schizophrenia: <1% (estimated 1.5 million people). Bipolar Disorder: 2.8% (estimated 7 million people). Anxiety Disorders: 19.1% (estimated 48 million people). Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: 3.6% (estimated 9 million people). Which mental illness is most common among adults ages 18 and above?Approximately 9.5% of American adults ages 18 and over, will suffer from a depressive illness (major depression, bipolar disorder, or dysthymia) each year. Women are nearly twice as likely to suffer from major depression than men.
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What is the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder among individuals in very late adulthood?
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