Mental Health in the Elderly

Mental health is important, at any age. But as people grow older, mental health issues are often overshadowed by physical ailments as the body naturally changes. Unfortunately, many ageing adults are at risk of developing mental health problems or neurological disorders. According to statistics, 1 in four older people live with common mental health conditions. The good news is that mental health conditions are not an inevitable part of ageing – help is available. 

In this post, we want to highlight the importance of mental health in the elderly and share how residential care in Chadwell Heath, Romford can have a positive effect. 

Mental health matters

We recognise that as people age, their mental health needs are just as important as their physical health needs. Both are essential for enjoying a good quality of life and maintaining overall happiness and wellbeing. While there’s often an emphasis on taking prescribed medications, eating well and looking after the body to maintain physical health, we want to highlight the importance of looking after the mind, too.

The elderly and mental health

So how exactly can mental health be affected as we age? To start with, it’s natural for older people to experience increased feelings of loneliness as social circles change or grow smaller. A change in mobility or physical capabilities can make it difficult or impossible for people to participate in hobbies and activities they once loved. Financial limitations may also prevent people from doing things that once brought joy and fulfilment. 

The most common mental health condition among older people is depression. This affects approximately 22% of men and 28% of women aged 65 or over. Anxiety and loneliness are other common conditions affecting older people. 

Physical health may also trigger or exacerbate mental health conditions. For example, it is common for older people living with multiple long-term conditions to experience impaired functioning, reduced independence, chronic pain and less social interaction. All of these things can have a negative effect on mental health. Dementia can also influence mental health, with studies indicating that 20-40% of people living with dementia are depressed. 

How can Rowallan House help?

As a local, family-run care home, we put the physical and mental health needs of our residents first. For over 40 years, we’ve been providing exceptional support and specialist care, including dementia care, palliative care and respite care, to residents. You can rest assured that our fully qualified team of carers is dedicated to caring for your loved one as though they were our own family. Care is personalised according to a person’s unique needs while respecting their dignity and choices. That’s because we value our residents’ independence and believe people have the right to control their lives as much as possible. 

At your home away from home, we encourage socialisation. There are always activities to take part in or events to attend so that residents feel connected. In addition to forming friendships with other residents, our carers are committed to building close bonds and forming genuine relationships too. We also have a sensory room that’s specially designed to be a relaxing space for those with dementia. 

Complete with a barbershop, spacious bedrooms and beautifully landscaped gardens, Rowallan House has everything you need to feel safe, comfortable and cared for. 

Get in touch 
If you or your loved one are interested in joining our family at Rowallan House, we would love to talk with you. Please do not hesitate to contact us here or call us on 0800 999 8499. Our friendly staff would be happy to provide more information or answer any of your questions.