elderly woman smiling

Understanding the Mental Health Challenges of Older Adults

McGregor’s Partnership with ViaQuest to Support Our Seniors

May is full of holidays and special days of recognition, from National Skilled Nursing Care Week to Mother’s Day and Memorial Day. All of these are important events for very different reasons but there is another event of significance for the month of May that we do not want to overlook—and that is Mental Health Awareness Month.

Many different organizations are recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month. The National Alliance on Mental Illness is spreading awareness with the theme of “Together for Mental Health.” Mental Health America is offering a downloadable Back to Basics toolkit that provides foundational knowledge about mental health and mental health conditions, as well as what people can do if their mental health—or that of a loved one’s—is a cause for concern.

While anyone of any age can suffer from mental health challenges, older adults have been especially prone to symptoms. Due in large part to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have seen a rise in mental health symptoms among residents in nursing care centers across the state. This is why McGregor has partnered with ViaQuest Psychiatric & Behavioral Solutions to provide Psychiatric Medication Management & Therapeutic Behavioral Support services to residents with a need. 

Our therapeutic behavioral support specialists engage with all of our residents and provide care and attention based on their specific needs and circumstances. We work with residents who have a wide range of symptoms, including anxiety, grief, anger, sleep disturbances, phobias and fears, antisocial behaviors—and many more.

 

What can you do in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month?

  • Raise community awareness. Perhaps a family member or friend is struggling, and you have not been aware of their situation. Perhaps you have struggled but haven’t shared your experience with others. Consider confiding in a close friend or loved one and invite them to share their own experiences. This kind of connection can help break the stigma around mental health.
  • When you ask people how they are doing, listen closely. If someone shares that they are struggling, encourage them to seek help and remind them that there are so many resources available to them, not only nationally but within their own communities.
  • Take some time for your physical health. Remember that physical health supports your mental well-being. Challenge yourself to find one way every week to prioritize your physical health. 

If we can support you or your loved one in any way, please reach out to our team.

 

Contact McGregor