Mental Illness and Aging: A Quick Look

Many changes take place as we age. Physically, we may experience declines in vision and hearing, bladder function and probably a little arthritis, just to name a few. Socially, we may experience changes in our roles and relationships and the transition from work to retirement. But, what are the most common psychological changes that take place as we age? Stress will most likely accompany many of these changes, and some stress is good. But, too much stress can impact one’s mental health, especially later in life.

The Importance of Mental Health

Mental health is just as vital as physical health as we age. Older adults with some form of psychological or behavior disorder are at an increased risk for poor quality of life, being disabled and premature death. But, there is good news. Most types of mental illness are treatable through therapy, medication or a combination of both. Among the most commonly experienced and treatable later life disorders is depression.

Quick Facts

Roughly one out of every four Americans will experience a mental health problem during their lifetime. This is for people at any age. Our mental health is influenced by many things including nutrition, the use of alcohol or other substances, prescription medications, over the counter drugs, exercise, life style, relationships, illness and stress.

Suicide is a topic that most of us don’t want to talk about, but among all suicides that take place annually, 25% are among older adults. Individuals who are the highest risk for suicide are elderly white males. Alcohol or substances may be a part of suicide and it is well known that over 20% of older adults have drug and alcohol problems.

Dementia is a very common problem as we age. One in nine Americans over 65 have a dementing illness, most likely Alzheimer’s disease. This number increases dramatically to one in three over 85. Sadly, one out of every three Americans will die with some form of dementia.

If we were to take a snap shop at the most common psychological or behavioral disorders among older adult, they would include:

• Depression
• Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias
• Anxiety
• Late life schizophrenia
• Alcohol and substance abuse

Final Thoughts

Although this article doesn’t address treatments for these disorders, a good takeaway is there are many effective ways to treat them. We will experience changes as we age – physically, socially and psychologically. But, there are various therapies and psychotropic medications that can be very helpful. Life will happen. Things will change. Good stress management is an important buffer that can protect us from many problems later in life. How good are you at identifying and managing your stress?

More About Behavioral and Mental Health

• Crisis Intervention in Mental Health
• Behavior Management: The Person-Centered Way