Mental Health Among Residents of Assisted Living Facilities and Retirement Communities

As our loved ones transition into their golden years and become less able to care for themselves, ensuring their well-being becomes paramount. Many families make the difficult decision to put their elderly loved ones in an assisted living facility, where they can get the round-the-clock care they need. In all decisions regarding a senior’s care, their quality of life should be the top priority. While concerns over physical health often take center stage, the significance of mental health in seniors in assisted living cannot be understated.
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A Growing Concern

Seniors residing in assisted living facilities face a unique set of challenges that can take a toll on their mental well-being:

• Medical issues, including chronic pain
• Decline in physical ability and independence
• Decline in mental capacity
• Dementia or Alzheimer’s
• Disconnection or distance from community and family
• Loss of friends and loved ones
• Having to give up their home and former lifestyle
• Boredom and lack of purpose
• Guilt over relying on family financially
• Lack of control over lifestyle
• Difficulty coping with end of life
• Abuse and neglect

A 2020 CDC report showed that, in 2016, 30.9% of assisted living residents had depression, while 41.9% had diagnosed dementia. Yet, mental health concerns among seniors in these facilities are often overlooked, with the focus primarily placed on physical health. That same study reported that more than 40% of all assisted living communities do not provide mental health services. 

However, mental health is just as important to quality of life, especially for a population that must cope with the inevitable decline of their physical health. Seniors in assisted living facilities deserve a comprehensive approach that encompasses both aspects. As our senior population swells with the ranks of the Baby Boomers, this issue will only grow in scale.
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Improving Mental Health Among Residents of Assisted Living Facilities

Improving mental health among residents of assisted living facilities may feel like an uphill battle, but there are strategies that can make a difference:

• Combat Loneliness and Isolation - One of the prevalent challenges in assisted living facilities is the feeling of loneliness and isolation. Seniors may find themselves separated from their familiar surroundings and social circles, leading to feelings of sadness and disconnection. Meaningful social interactions and engagement play a pivotal role in maintaining mental well-being. Facilities can help by hosting group activities and social gatherings for their seniors. Family and friends can help by visiting and calling their loved ones.
• Provide Mental Stimulation - Memory games, puzzles, and mental exercises can provide a mental workout, sharpen short-term memory, and slow cognitive decline. They also prompt dopamine to release with every success, which helps with happiness and satisfaction.
• Provide Resources for Hobbies - Hobbies such as knitting, crocheting, painting, crafting, and gardening can entertain and give seniors a sense of purpose. Family, friends, or facilities could provide the necessary materials, or even offer instruction in these pastimes.
• Create a Supportive Environment - Assisted living facilities can play a crucial role in fostering a supportive environment that nurtures mental health. Mental health awareness programs and workshops can educate both residents and staff about the importance of emotional well-being. Making mental health part of the culture can also de-stigmatize the issue, removing shame from the equation and allowing residents to open up about their struggles.
• Provide Mental Health Services - Because residents often can’t leave the facility on their own, sessions with a mental health professional might seem out of the question. However, family can bring in a provider in-person or virtually to provide therapy to their loved one. Facilities can also partner with providers to offer mental health care on-site, making it accessible to all of their residents.
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On-Site Psychological Care for Seniors

Recognizing the importance of mental health care in assisted living facilities and retirement communities, Medens Health has introduced a new service to meet the needs of the community. Our new program offers on-site psychological care to residents of assisted living facilities and retirement communities, ensuring that their mental and emotional needs are met with the same level of dedication as their physical needs. Through this service, residents can receive tailored counseling and support from skilled professionals who understand the unique challenges they face and who are committed to their holistic well-being.

To make things as seamless as possible, Medens Health processes all billing directly with patients' insurance, ensuring no cost to the facility. If you are interested in partnering with Medens to provide care at your facility, learn more and fill out the form here.

As the population of seniors in assisted living facilities grows, so does the urgency to address their mental health needs. By creating supportive environments, raising awareness, and offering innovative services like Medens Health's on-site psychological care, we can ensure that seniors in assisted living facilities enjoy a higher quality of life, both physically and mentally.
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^Disclaimer:

^{‍The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical or mental health. If you don’t currently have a therapist, we can connect you with one who is qualified to give you safe, professional, and ethical advice regarding your mental health.}

^{If you or someone you are responsible for is experiencing a medical emergency, is considering harming themselves or others, or is otherwise in imminent danger, you should call 9-1-1 and/or take them to the nearest emergency room.}