Mental disorders do not have to be part of aging. When an older adult shows signs of mental illness or impairment, a family member may need to seek help on his or her behalf.
Signs of treatable mental illness in older adults may include:
- Persistent depression and apathy
- Obvious personality change or extreme mood swings
- Excessive fear, anxiety, anger or irritability
- Significant changes in eating or sleeping patterns
- Not taking prescribed medication or pursuing treatment ordered by a physician
- Suicidal thoughts
- Declining ability to cope with daily life and activities
- Alcohol and/or prescription drug dependency
- Strange or grandiose ideas
Medications, physical illness, dementia or grief from loss of a spouse can also influence behavior and make diagnosis challenging. But left untreated, mental illness in older adults can lead to disability, poor quality of life or inappropriate placement in a nursing home.
Inpatient treatment
Parkview Behavioral Health offers inpatient treatment especially suited to the needs of older adults. Experts in geriatric psychiatry direct the care of seniors with particular attention to the unique medical, nutritional and mental health issues faced by people in their 70s, 80s and beyond. The goal of treatment is to increase each person’s quality of life and enable him or her to be as independent as possible.
To serve patients in a safe, appropriate environment:
- The facility is handicapped-accessible, and adaptive equipment is available as needed.
- Secure accommodations are provided for patients suffering the effects of dementia.
Patients receive daily therapeutic services geared to their psychiatric and physical needs, and participate in group exercise and other activities.
As with services for youngsters and adults, family involvement in treatment, discharge planning and aftercare is extremely important. Before a patient leaves the facility, staff members educate his or her family members/caregivers on available community resources, as well as arrange for referrals to local home health, assisted living or nursing home services.
Getting help from Parkview Behavioral Health is easy. Simply call the Access Center at (260) 373-7500 or (800) 284-8439, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Experienced assessment specialists are available to guide you to the appropriate level of care – or resources – for your situation.