The 9 Early Signs of Elderly Mental Illness to Watch for in Your Loved One

The 9 Early Signs Of Mental Illness in The Elderly Symptoms

Your parents are more prone to experience mental illness as they get older, typically when they are in their 60s or older. A mental illness can have an impact on daily activities even though your elderly parents are pillars of strength, make enormous contributions to society, and volunteer at several social events.

Even while the majority of seniors have decent mental health, most are at danger of experiencing nervous breakdowns, neurological problems, and mental illnesses at some point in their life.

Additionally, as they age, your parents will likely get some sort of medical ailment, such as hearing loss, cataracts, diabetes, and osteoarthritis, along with a mental disease.

Studies show that 20% of seniors experience some form of mental health issue.Key among these mental health issues are depression, anxiety, dementia, severe cognitive issues, and mood disorders. 

Knowing the Issues Related to Elderly Mental Illness

Research predicts the worldwide population to age quickly, rising from 12% in 2015 to 22% in 2050. For those over 60, this represents an increase of up to 2 billion people.

Because so many people are at risk for mental illness, addressing both mental health issues and unique physical difficulties is crucial. One of the most underdiagnosed ailments is mental illness.

The stigma that someone with a mental illness typically has to deal with may prevent him or her from seeking professional assistance.

Unfortunately, when your loved one suffers from mental illness and does not seek professional help, it may increase their chances of committing suicide. You may be surprised to know that, although the senior population is at 16.8%, it accounts for 18% of suicides in the United States. 

These statistics are alarming and make it crucial for us to note the early signs of mental illness in our loved ones. Spotting early signs of mental illness will help you get them the support they need to make their golden years comfortable and enjoyable. 

[Older couple enjoying the outdoors without the fear and stigma that accompanies elderly mental illness]

What Separates Mental Health from Mental Illness

It is important to understand the distinction between mental health and mental disease. Mental disease refers to a mental ailment that doctors can diagnoze, such as dementia and depression, whereas mental health refers to a person’s overall emotional well-being or state of mind.

Your elderly parents’ emotions, behavior, and even thought processes may change if they have a mental condition. Their everyday attitude and, eventually, this transformation will eventually affect their daily life.

What Are the Most Common Mental Illness Signs to Look Out for in Your Loved One? 

The following signs may point you in the right direction toward solving your loved one’s mental illness and getting them the help they require. 

When Your Loved One Starts Having Trouble Remembering Simple Things 

One of the earliest and first signs to note when your mom or dad start developing mental illness is when they start having trouble remembering things. Although memory loss is common and associated with aging, it can be a hint that you need to be keener on your parent’s well-being as it can indicate the onset of a mental illness. 

Sometimes, memory loss could signify the onset of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. If you realize that your mom keeps forgetting things like important dates, where they kept their keys, or constantly asking you about the same information, then it’s time you start considering ways to help them.

[An elderly couple enjoying a cup of tea as they ruminate on what to do about mental illness]

Frequent emotions and mood changes that last longer 

With aging comes mood and emotional changes, however, if you notice that your loved one’s mood changes take longer than usual, it is an indicator of something serious, and you should consider seeking medical assistance. If you do not take the necessary steps when you notice frequent and constant mood changes, the condition may deteriorate and result in an altered personality trait in your parents. Sometimes it is better to be safe than regret later on. You should seek help and let the professional tell you should not worry rather than ignore the situation and regret it in the future.

Inability to pay attention

The difficulty in concentrating is another indicator of mental disease. When a loved one struggles to focus, you will know they have a mental health problem. When you and your dad are playing a game, you can occasionally notice that they are having trouble focusing on your game.

When you ask your mom about her unfinished work, she can keep putting it off or perhaps forget what or why she began stitching in the first place, even though you know she is making a blanket for a special someone.

[An elderly couple is debating whether to bring on a part-time caregiver to assist with their home]

When a Loved One Starts to Become Disoriented or Show Symptoms of Confusion

Confusion and disorientation are often associated with aging. Still, in other cases, they could be symptoms of mental disease in your loved one, such as psychosis, dementia, or even depression. It would be best not to panic in this circumstance; instead, maintain composure and get them the required assistance.

Fear that Never Goes Away

 If you donot see anything to worry about, you won’t take your mother seriously when she says they are worried. You might want a break from your busy schedule when they tell you they are afraid. You can spend time with your family or take them to a favorite place. Keep an open mind, pay attention to your mother, and seek assistance if something seems strange. As much as you can, ensure your parents have a comfortable existence as they age.

Change in Their Personal Hygiene

In some cases, when a person is struggling with a mental health issue, they may lack energy even to bathe, brush their teeth, or even change their clothes. In addition, your loved one may become excessively obsessive about cleanliness. You will notice some of these changes in the number of times they bathe, brush their teeth, and change their clothes in a day.

Social Withdrawal or Isolation

When older persons have a mental condition or are dealing with it, they frequently isolate themselves from social situations. They shy away from social situations and could become quickly irritated when they do. If your parents used to be social butterflies and suddenly do not like to join in any social events, you will notice this difference immediately.

If your parents lose interest in most of their social activities, especially those that require them to connect with others, they may be dealing with a mental illness.

The Appetite Shifts

Sudden weight loss is among the simplest signs of mental illness. It is wise to keep this in mind when you check if your loved one is eating a healthy, balanced diet.

A lack of regular eating might cause weight loss. Your parents may refrain from eating since meal planning, grocery shopping, and even cooking are tedious. They tend to consume a lot of junk food, which could lead to weight loss or growth. Please check the refrigerator when you visit them if you see a lot of junk or no food.

One way to fix this issue is to assist mom with grocery shopping and use the time you spend cooking to catch up on one other’s life. You can drop by and assist with preparing nutritious meals that they may reheat and take later. If you are too busy, try looking for someone to help your parents with dinner preparation, light cleaning, and even company.

[Some of the nutritious foods you can make and pack for your loved one in 2023]

When your elderly parents begin exhibiting unexplainable health problems 

 If your parents start to complain about:

• Sweating, 
• digestive distress, 
• incontinence, 
• sudden onset of muscle discomfort or tension, 
• Shaking.
  
  

Some of these physical symptoms could be a marker of a mental health condition. Their sleeping habits have changed. Your parents’ abrupt lack of sleep or oversleeping could be a sign of mental illness.

[A couple having a home conversation about elderly mental health]

Conclusion

The mental health of your loved ones is essential, so if you notice they are having trouble, please do not wait to get help. Don’t be embarrassed to ask for assistance; this is a positive step to help you and those you love cope with and manage their mental illness.