Elder Care in Jupiter FL
October 2 through 8 is Mental Illness Awareness Week. This is the perfect time for you to talk with your elderly loved one about their mental health and any concerns that you might have so that you are able to help them to manage any conditions that they might have in the best way for them. This might be a challenging discussion for you to have, but approaching it honestly, openly, and confidently can help you to ensure that you give your elderly parent the best care possible no matter what they are coping with. Use these tips to help you discuss mental illness with your loved one: • Be honest with them. If you are feeling any sort of concern about your aging parent’s mental health, be honest and upfront with them. Tell them what you have noticed that has made you concerned about their health, and that you want them to be proactive in protecting themselves and their well-being.• Reassure them. Many elderly adults remember a time when mental health issues were considered shameful and no one would openly discuss them. Let them know that this time has passed and that they have no reason to be ashamed or embarrassed of any type of mental health condition that they might be coping with. This can help them to feel more confident discussing what they are going through with you, and possibly seeking out treatment to help them live a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle.
• Let them know that they are not alone. It is a common misconception that mental health concerns are limited to younger people and that when they get older, they will no longer suffer from them. When they do start to experience symptoms of a mental disorder they can feel as though they are the only person in the world dealing with it. Let them know that approximately 20 percent of the adult population over the age of 64 throughout the United States exhibits the criteria to be classified as having a mental disorder. This can make them feel less afraid of what they are going through and more willing to seek out help that can improve their quality of life. If you are concerned about your elderly loved one’s mental health or believe that your aging parent would benefit from additional care as they age in place, now may be the ideal time for you to consider home care for them. An in-home care provider can offer your parent companionship, support, and encouragement that can help them to better manage their mental health concerns in a way that improves their quality of life and helps them to make the most of their later years. If they have been given a course of medical treatment of their mental health issues, this care provider can also provide valuable reminders to keep them on track and compliant with these guidelines so that they can get the most benefit from them. Source http://www.apa.org/about/gr/issues/aging/mental-health.aspx
If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Jupiter, FL, contact the caring staff at BrightStar Care of Jupiter. Call today (561) 741-1200.