Mental Health and Aging: Acceptance, Healing, and Meaning in Later Life

As we age, it is normal that we may begin to experience more illness or physical problems, as well as an increase in life transitions. With this, stress, sadness and other emotions are likely to occur in this later stage of life. However, persistent changes in mood or energy level, changes in sleep and eating habits, confusion or forgetfulness, unexplained aches and pains, sadness or hopelessness, increased anger, preoccupation with distressing thoughts, and more, are not a normal part of aging. Many aging adults do not seek out mental health support due to the misconception that these symptoms are a normal part of aging, when in fact these are warning signs of mental health disorders that should not be ignored (MedlinePlus.gov). According to the World Health Organization, it is estimated that around 14.75% of adults aged 70 and over live with mental health disorder (most commonly anxiety and depression); due to under-reporting it is likely that the true number of aging adults struggling with mental health disorders is in fact higher. Given that the number of people aged 60 and over is expected to double by the 2060’s, it is important that we increase awareness and support for the mental health of aging adults (who.int). Keep reading to better understand warning signs, risk factors, and treatment for mental health disorders in aging adults.

Risk Factors and Warning Signs

In older adulthood, there are a variety of risk factors that are unique to this stage of life that increase the risk for mental health disorders. Some of those risk factors include: physical health problems and mobility challenges, cumulative experiences of early life, bereavement, reduced income, and a reduced sense of purpose after retiring (who.int). Additionally, other factors such as ageism, social isolation, and abuse (physical, psychological, financial, etc.) increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders. Finally, the decline in physical and mental capacities, and the need for increased support with daily life can have serious impacts on the mental health of aging adults. 

In addition to those listed above, other warning signs of mental disorders include behavioral changes (such as increase in risky behaviors including substance use), hearing voices or believing things that aren’t true, a loss of interest in activities that were previously enjoyed, difficulties with concentration or decision making, and thoughts about suicide or harming oneself. 

Importance of Mental Health Treatment in Later Adulthood

While taking care of our mental health is important in all life stages, there are certain risks that are much more significant to overall well being in this stage of life. Kelee Lambert, LMFT, and therapist at Mind and Body Therapeutic Connections, who specializes in treating the aging adult population, shares about the risks of untreated mental health disorders in older adults. “We know mental health significantly impacts physical health, and in older adults the impacts can be much more significant. Some examples include longer stays in the hospital, more medical problems, and increased risk for dementia when mental health conditions go untreated.” Kelee goes on to say, “The two biggest misconceptions about older adults is that they are too set in their ways to change and that feeling sad, down, irritated, etc. is a normal part of getting older, so therapy will not be helpful. Neither of these are true! Humans have the capacity to learn and change at any age. In fact, they often have more insight, wisdom, and other positive changes in the brain to aid them in this process.” Kelee states, “Circumstances may bring waves of sadness and grief, like loss of loved ones, friends, and physical abilities, but it is not an essential or primary way of being as we age.” Therapy in older adulthood can help shift focus from the negatives of aging, to the strengths. “We tend to overlook the positive changes that happen in the brain as we age.” states Kelee. “Some examples are finding it easier to focus, improved emotion regulation, higher levels of self-compassion, and better problem-solving skills. These positive shifts, coupled with a therapeutic environment, can have incredible benefits for older adults.”  

Treatment and Supports for Aging Adults

“Taking care of the whole self is important at any age, but becomes crucial as we age because not taking care of the whole person puts us at greater risk for dementia.”Kelee says. She goes on to say, “As we age it is important to continue checking in on our physical health (go see your doctor), working our brain (puzzles, hobbies, learning new things), staying active (chair yoga, going for a walk, going grocery shopping, keeping a schedule) and staying connected with others.” Prioritizing these aspects of health, with the support of a therapist or on your own, can go a long way in improving mental health in older adults. 

When asked about treating older adults, Kelee says, “Loss of independence and/or the ability to do things like you used to, is a main contributor to depression in older adults and why it is the most common mental health diagnosis in older adults.” She states, “Oftentimes, learning that different doesn't mean bad is a helpful reframe for older adults who might have mobility and/or cognitive issues.”

Helping older adult clients come to a place of acceptance of the changes they are facing can allow them to bring their focus away from what is lost, and instead “shift[s] their mindset to what is meaningful and in their control. It allows for a reformulation of values without judgment” says Kelee. Kelee takes an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) approach when working with older adults. One tool that she utilizes, called Cognitive Defusion, can be especially effective. “Cognitive defusion in accepting thoughts as thoughts and not fact”, she says. When we stop seeing every thought as a fact, we can remain in the present moment, and focus on what is in our control, leading to a greater sense of satisfaction and meaning in day to day life.

If you are struggling with the challenges of aging, we are here to help. At Mind and Body Therapeutic Connections, our holistic approach to mental health treatment supports the whole person. Visit our website at www.mindandbodytc.com or call 919-791-5611 to learn more about our services or schedule your clinical consultation today.