It is estimated that until 2030, each day, 10,000 baby boomers will retire officially. A quarter of the population of the U.S. is represented by this population. For these adults navigating into retirement or slower lifestyles could lead to mental health challenges as they are left wondering what to do with the remaining days of their lives. Apparently, the people from this generation also struggle with the same mental health challenges and need the same treatments and services as required by others. This segment of the population is also the most likely to stigmatize the use of mental health treatment services.
Keeping the needs of the geriatric population in mind, a mental health program for the elderly should be such that it empowers them to lead a fuller life while coping with the trauma, effectively managing their symptoms of anxiety and depression, and even staying mentally agile for longer. Some of these programs are as follows:
Problem-Solving Therapy
Problem-solving therapy is a type of psychotherapy that has been used extensively in psychiatry for treating multiple conditions such as to conduct disorders, depressive disorders, substance abuse, and obesity. For the reason that older adults might experience multiple stressors in their day-to-day lives because of losses, medical ailments, cognitive impairment, and disability, a proactive methodology using discrete and effortlessly taught steps to resolve problems appears to be interesting and concrete. This therapy works on two principles, reducing stress and improving life by finding the best possible solution to everyday problems at hand and teaching problem-solving skills to people so that they can deal with future challenges.
Reminiscence Therapy
In this, the therapist helps the elderly focus on reminiscing about something that was pleasing. For example, when a picture of a turkey is brought in front of an older adult, and they are asked about what it reminds them of, they may start talking about Thanksgiving, discuss associated smells and memories, and might get transported to their happier times. This fires up positive emotions in them and changes their mood immediately. This therapy is also useful for patients with dementia as their long-term memory is strong. Moreover, it is useful for depressed patients as to when they start talking about their happier times, they start connecting with others in the group, thus forming healthy social connections.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT focuses on recognizing and refining impaired behavioral and thinking patterns so as to help the elderly achieve goals. CBT comprises an extensive range of behavioral and cognitive approaches and is goal-oriented and structured. For example, CBT could be used to help older adult break their lethargic routine. They could choose an activity they like so that it is easier for them to break the cycle. This could mean going to the church every Sunday, meeting grandkids, joining some classes, etc. This simple change in routine can help them tremendously to come out of the vicious cycle of depression and loneliness.
It is better to plan the well-being of your mental health earlier instead of waiting for things to worsen over time.