Mental illnesses are health conditions that impair a person’s emotions, thoughts, or behavior, resulting in distress and an inability to cope with daily functioning. The World Health Organization reported in 2017 that approximately 15% of adults over age 60 suffer from a mental disorder. Common mental disorders in this age group include depression, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and anxiety.
Aging causes your body and brain to change with time. While changes in the brain are part of this natural process, mental illnesses are not. The early signs of mental illness are often ignored or erroneously overlooked as signs of aging. However, early detection can reduce distress for you and your loved one. With the appropriate help and support to manage symptoms, anyone with mental illness can continue to lead a fulfilling and healthy life. These are the four early signs of mental illness you should pay attention to in your loved one.
Changes in Mood
If you notice your loved ones acting differently from their usual confident, carefree, happy self, a serious issue may be at hand. Mental illnesses like depression and Alzheimer’s disease can lead to a change in disposition such that your loved one may become excessively anxious, confused, or angry. These changes may appear suddenly or develop over time, with their triggers being vague or unknown. When these mood changes last for more than two weeks, it is important to speak to a mental health professional about it.
Changes in Personal Hygiene Habits
Mental illnesses make daily personal care routines, like bathing, changing clothes, and brushing hair or teeth, challenging. An inability to keep up with personal hygiene habits could be a sign that your loved one is struggling with mental illnesses. They may skip over daily tasks that were once second nature to them, for example, applying makeup or styling their hair. As a result, there might be noticeable changes in their appearances too.
Changes in Memory
Memory-related issues are often deemed as part of the natural aging process. However, they could be warning signs that your loved one has Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. Initial memory loss can look like forgetting dates, frequently misplacing belongings, or asking the same question repeatedly. It can be distressing for you and your loved ones as they try to navigate the uncertainty and confusion in their lives while you deal with the frustration of having to repeat yourself like a broken record and worrying about them. During this time, entrusting your loved one to a memory care community might be beneficial for both of you.
Changes in the Way They Interact with Others
When a loved one starts to lose interest in activities they used to enjoy or avoid any social engagements, it could be a sign that they are living with mental illness. It may have become an uphill task to remember the rules of their favorite game, carry on a conversation or engage with others without feeling overly anxious. Sometimes, they may be so caught up in the rumination of their thoughts and emotions that they cannot do anything else.
When caring for your loved one, it is important to pay close attention to any changes in their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Symptoms caused by the onset of mental illnesses will debilitate the well-being of your loved ones and affect their daily activities.
If your loved one is experiencing these symptoms and you are concerned about his or her way of life, contact us to find out how our memory care program at Discovery Commons At Wildewood can help your loved one lead a happy and fulfilling life.
