According to the World Health Organization, approximately 14% of adults aged 60 and over live with a mental health condition. Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, and can change throughout an individual’s life. As adults age and can no longer do the activities that once brought them joy, it can be difficult to cope. Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. In-home care can provide a much-needed support system to help aging adults’ mental health.
Understanding Depression and Anxiety
The most important step in supporting your aging loved one with a mental health challenge is to understand what they are going through. Depression is a mood disorder that affects the way you feel, think, and act and can involve feelings of hopelessness and restlessness. Generalized anxiety disorder is the most common form of anxiety found in aging adults, and can result in uncontrollable feelings of panic, obsessive thinking, insomnia, irritability, and withdrawal. Mental health conditions can be genetic, but they can also be brought on by difficult life changes such as medical complications, stress, isolation, and loss of mobility.
How Can In-Home Care Help?
Personalized Care Plans
In-home care is unique to the individual in need of care. Some aging adults may benefit from transportation services while others need social stimulation to keep from getting bored. No matter what your loved one’s needs are, a non-medical caregiver can help with activities of daily living, meal preparation, cleaning, and household duties. This individualized approach ensures that the specific mental health concerns of your loved one are addressed, providing a more effective support system.
Companionship
Caregivers provide much-needed social interaction, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common triggers for depression and anxiety in seniors. Socialization has a major impact on improving mental health by improving memory, cognition, and mood. In-home caregivers can serve as trusted companions to your loved one, taking the time to get to know them and engaging them in stimulating conversations and playing games that enhance mindful aging. In-home caregivers can also recognize worsening signs of mental health conditions by monitoring your loved one’s mood and behaviors.
Established Routine
Maintaining a routine can be highly beneficial for seniors with anxiety and depression. In-home caregivers help establish and maintain daily routines based on your loved one’s preferences and favorite activities, providing stability, a sense of normalcy, and moments for your loved one to look forward to. This consistency can help reduce
anxiety and improve overall mood. Whether your loved one enjoys volunteering in their community, attending neighborhood events, cooking dinner every night, or meeting up with friends and family, caregivers will help facilitate meaningful activities.
Help With Exercise
There is a direct connection between physical and mental health in aging adults. An in-home caregiver can encourage and lead your loved one through a doctor-approved exercise routine that will help them maintain their mobility and improve their overall health. From gentle walks through the neighborhood to safe strength training, regular movement is shown to reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Access to Nutritious Meals
The human brain and body function best with the proper fuel. Non-medical, in-home caregivers can cook for your aging loved one and ensure they are eating a nutrient-rich diet that promotes optimal mental health.
HomeSpark In-Home Care
In-home care services are invaluable in supporting the mental health of seniors with depression and anxiety. By providing personalized care, companionship, and professional support, these services help improve the overall well-being and quality of life for your loved one. At HomeSpark, we offer flexible care plans tailored to your family’s needs, helping to maintain a safe home environment. Contact HomeSpark today to see if in-home senior care is right for you and your loved one.