National Mental Health Month and Aging

HealthWatch for May 2007
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Older Americans’ Mental Health Week: May 21-27, 2007

One of the most common myths about older adults is that mental illness is a normal part of aging. Often, those in need don’t seek mental health services due to embarrassment, limited finances, or assuming “age” is to blame. Drastic action can result. Older adults commit suicide at an alarmingly high rate: 17 adults over age 65 each day.

“Twenty percent of adults 55 and older experience mental disorders that are not part of the normal aging process and suicide rates in adults over 65 are higher than any other age group.”
- Mental Health Advocacy Coalition

Many older adults feel alone, lacking others their own age to share their emotions with and talk about the problems they are experiencing. This can lead to several other health issues. People with depression are more likely to have strokes, heart problems and need nursing care early, and they often stay sick longer. Maintaining good mental health can help keep one physically healthier.

Below are 10 tips for Improving Mental Health in Older Adults:

Get plenty of rest: Make certain to devote a full seven to eight hours of sleep each night to sustain a proper balance of physical and mental health.
Go for a walk: Enjoying a long walk at a moderate pace allows you to reflect on your day while getting the blood flowing.
Eat something new: Whether it’s tackling a new recipe or re-inventing a traditional one, cooking is a great way to eat well and have fun in the process.
Exercise your mind: Challenge yourself with a jigsaw puzzle, solve riddles or read a good book.
Spend time with others: Spending time with family and friends is important. Reach out to someone you haven’t talked to a while and create new memories.
Indulge yourself: Sooth aching bones and wash away worrisome thoughts with a long bath or hot shower.
Stay in: Don’t feel obligated to do everything asked of you. It is okay to say no. To avoid feeling overwhelmed, opt to spend time with yourself once in a while.
Make the most of leisure time: Make plans with family members, loved ones and/or a tour group to visit a place you’ve always wanted to go. Join a club, start a new hobby or learn a new skill.
Get involved: Volunteering is a great way to give back. Knowing that you have helped someone else can help you to feel better about yourself.
Take things one at a time: It’s easy to get caught up in the desire to do and experience new things, but having too much on your plate can be counter-productive. Try making a list.

Resource: Mental Health America

Local Resources

90.3 WCPN ideastream: ideastream Focus on Mental Health
Cleveland Clinic: Regular Physical Activity Help Older Adults Stay in Their Prime
Cuyahoga County Community Mental Health Board: Facts About Mental Health
Lorain County Mental Health Board: Network of Care for Behavioral Health
Mental Health Advocacy Coalition: Cultural Competency in Mental Health- A Seminar on May 30, 2007
Mental Health & Recovery Board of Portage County: Network Care for All Generations
Ohio Network of Care: Network of Care Behavioral Health Brochure
Lorain County Board of Mental Health: 440.233.2020
Cuyahoga County Community Mental Health Board: 216.241.3400

State and National Resources

Mental Health America: Mental Health and Older Adults
National Institute of Mental Health: Older Adults - Depression and Suicide
SAMHSA’s National Mental Health Information Center: A Guide For Older Adults