Senior Living and Mental Illness

Awareness for mental illness has increased over the years.  The pandemic has increased our attention on mental heath. Seventy-five percent of mental health issues begin before a person is 25. Early diagnosis and treatment can help young adults live more successful and normal lives.

Yet, there are many older adults today with a mental health condition.  And, they may never have “officially” been diagnosed.

If your loved one has mental health challenges and you are looking at senior living options, below are a few things to ask:

• Does a psychiatrist come to the building as part of their physician services?
• Does their community and RN have much experience with older adults with mental illness or your loved one’s condition specifically?
• Has the community been successful at keeping these residents engaged and in their community?
• Has their care staff received training about depression in the elderly or mental illness in general?
• Do they have a licensed social worker on staff that can assist you with finding necessary supports for a loved one with mental illness?

If you have a loved one with mental health challenges and are looking for the right senior living option, we are happy to help you in your search and ask these questions and others for you.