By Vince Brim, PsyD, CMC
Clinical Director
There are many factors to consider regarding mental health and aging:
- Aging adults with a history of mental health problems
- Mental health issues that can arise as a result of aging, such as depression and anxiety
- Mental health and behavioral issues related to the course of dementia
- Mental health conditions related to degenerative neurological disorders
- Medications affect elders differently than they do for younger adults they were developed for and are often incorrectly prescribed
- Medications for health related issues can create mental health problems in elders
- Mental health issues are often considered “taboo” subjects to discuss for elders
Knowing how to first identify problems, and correctly diagnose them is paramount. Solutions to such problems are often pursued before they are thoroughly diagnosed, which often compounds problems. Meeting with a professional Care Manager to help with mental health issues for an elder is a great place to start.