Getting Help For An Elderly Loved One
Caring and supporting an elderly loved one can be incredibly fulfilling, however; it also presents its own unique set of emotional challenges. Research shows that 25% of seniors continue to face some form of psychological distress. As daunting as seeking professional assistance for them may seem; there are services and resources available to support you in your search.
Navigating transitions that come with aging
Transitions can be difficult for anyone, but they can be especially hard for older adults and seniors. There are several reasons why this might be the case. First, many older adults have spent their entire lives living in one place, and suddenly, they have to make the difficult decision to move, which can be quite jarring. Second, as we age, our bodies change, and we may find it harder to do things we used to take for granted. Third, many older adults lose social support networks as friends, and family members pass away. All of these factors can make transitions incredibly difficult.
10 difficult transitions for seniors
Moving to a nursing home or assisted living facility
Losing a spouse
Dealing with a serious health condition
Becoming a caregiver to a parent or spouse
Suffering a major financial setback
Receiving a dementia diagnosis
Experiencing the death of a friend or family member
Adjusting to living alone or social isolation
Struggling with memory problems
Going through a divorce
Transitions can be hard for anyone, but they can be especially hard for older adults. Mental health challenges are all too common during these times of transition but with strong supportive networks helping guide the way, it's possible for older adults to embrace every change joyfully on their journey through life.
Signs your elderly loved one or family member may need counselling
If you see signs that your elderly loved one or aging parents may need counselling, don’t hesitate to take action.
The most common signs your loved one may need counselling include:
behavioural changes
withdrawal from social activities
increased forgetfulness
mood swings
changes in eating habits
changes in sleeping habits
confusion or disorientation
excessive worry or anxiety
feeling sad or hopeless
hallucinations or delusions
irritability or anger
If any of these changes sound familiar, it is important to get the right care for them as soon as possible.
Reasons why your loved one or family member are reluctant to seek counselling
Some older adults and seniors are reluctant to seek counselling for various reasons. One reason is that they may not know what to expect. They may feel like they are going to be judged or that the therapist is going to tell them what to do. They may also feel like they are not getting help for the "real" problem.
Another reason older adults may be reluctant to seek counselling is because of the cost. Counselling can be expensive, and many seniors do not have insurance that covers it.
Finally, older adults may be reluctant to seek counselling because they fear getting emotionally hurt. They may feel like they are opening up a Pandora's Box by talking about their problems. They may also fear that the therapist will be unable to help them.
How to talk to a loved one about getting help
01
Talk to them about the changes you've been seeing and why you think a service specializing in adult and senior mental health could be helpful. Be honest and open with them, and let them know you're trying to help.
02
Remind them that counselling is confidential and that their doctor will only disclose the information if absolutely necessary. This can help ease their fears of getting help.
03
Offer to go with them to their first appointment or attend sessions with them. This can make the process less intimidating and make sure they're getting the support they need.
Resources for caregivers
If you or someone you know is looking for help getting started with counselling for an elderly parent or loved one, here are a few resources to get you started:The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention »
This website provides information on how to get help for someone who is suicidal, as well as how to find a therapist.Canadian Coalition for Seniors' Mental Health »
This coalition helps to promote seniors' mental health by connecting people, ideas, and local resources.Canadian Mental Health Association »
This association provides helpful background on senior mental health in Canada.National Institute on Aging »
This institute based at the Toronto Metropolitan University provides information on signs of mental health problems in seniors and how to get help.
Candidar Oreko can help your aging loved ones
For the past decade, I have had the privilege of working with adults and seniors. Throughout this journey, it has become increasingly evident that many individuals are struggling to access the necessary mental health services in their later years; an issue compounded by loved ones lacking sufficient support from care teams as they are housebound. As a caregiver myself, I understand all too well how fulfilling the demands of this role can cause tremendous emotional distress - be it anxiety or general stress - leading to a deep sense of powerlessness.
Seeking therapy is an opportunity for you to discuss your journey as a caregiver in a compassionate atmosphere - enabling you to not just access new resources but also find the coping skills needed so that you and your loved one are supported.
If you want to learn more about counselling for adults and seniors but you’re not sure how to get started, book a free consultation with Candidar Oreko, Registered Social Worker and Psychotherapist,
Other Mental Health Services
Psychotherapy is a powerful tool to help you stay strong and resilient in the face of life's many transitions, big or small.
Grief Counselling
Provides support and guidance if you're coping with loss, and helps you navigate the next steps in life.
Marriage Counselling
Help to maintain healthy and happy relationships, resolve conflicts or issues causing tension.
Book your free 15-minute consultation today!
If you’re interested in learning how adult and senior mental health services can help you, please book a free 15-minute consultation with Candidar Oreko, Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist.