The Journey to Better Mental Health for Seniors
Mental health is just as important as physical health, but for many older adults, it wasn’t something openly discussed in the past. Thankfully, that’s changing. Today, more people understand that mental health challenges like depression or anxiety are common and that it’s absolutely okay to reach out for help.
Talking openly about mental health creates safe, supportive environments—especially for seniors who may be dealing with new life changes, health conditions, or emotional stress.
Find purpose, connection, and peace of mind at Edgewood
How to Recognize Depression in Seniors
Depression isn’t just feeling down now and then. It’s a serious, long-lasting condition that can affect how someone feels, thinks, and lives on a day-to-day basis. While some individuals may have struggled with depression throughout life, others may develop it later due to illness, isolation, or the loss of a loved one.
Only a healthcare professional can make a diagnosis, but here are some common signs of depression in older adults to look out for:
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Ongoing sadness, hopelessness, or feeling empty
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Loss of interest in hobbies, social activities, or favorite pastimes
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Significant weight changes or appetite loss
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Trouble sleeping—or sleeping too much
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Fatigue or lack of energy
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Skipping personal hygiene
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Digestive problems or unexplained aches
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Feeling irritable, angry, or withdrawn
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Difficulty focusing or making decisions
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Increased alcohol use or medication reliance
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Thoughts of death or suicide
If you notice any of these symptoms in a loved one, gently encourage them to speak with their doctor or a licensed mental health provider.
Signs of Anxiety in Seniors
Feeling a little worried from time to time is perfectly normal. But anxiety becomes a concern when those feelings linger or grow over time, especially when they interfere with daily life.
Older adults might worry about their health, finances, or the future. But when those worries start to take over, it may be time to seek support. Here are some common symptoms of anxiety in seniors:
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Constant or excessive worry
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Feeling restless or keyed up
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Sleep issues or frequent waking
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Avoiding social events or new situations
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Trouble concentrating or staying focused
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Physical symptoms like nausea, shakiness, or a racing heart
Supportive living environments, like assisted living communities, can help ease anxiety by providing routine, connection, and peace of mind.
Mental Health Support for Seniors: What Treatment Looks Like
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to mental health care. Some seniors benefit from talk therapy, others may need medication, and many find the best results from a mix of both.
Medication can be especially tricky for seniors who may already be taking several prescriptions. That’s where personalized treatment and regular medical care become so important.
A Personalized Approach with IDgenetix
At select Edgewood communities, we’re proud to work with primary care providers who use IDgenetix, a cutting-edge genetic test that helps take the guesswork out of mental health medications.
IDgenetix looks at:
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Your DNA
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Current medications
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Lifestyle factors
With this information, doctors can choose medications that are more likely to work and less likely to cause side effects. For older adults, that means:
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Faster symptom relief
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Fewer medication changes
It’s just one of the many ways we’re helping residents feel better, faster, and with more confidence in their care journey.
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Getting the Right Help
If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, don’t wait. Support is out there—and it often starts with just one conversation. Talk to a healthcare provider or call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) for free, confidential support 24/7.
At Edgewood, our team may not include professional therapists, but we’re trained to notice changes in our residents’ behavior, such as withdrawing from social activities or changes in their daily routine. That awareness brings peace of mind to families who want to know their loved one is being looked after with care and compassion.
Whether you’re considering a short-term stay, day service, or a more permanent move, Edgewood offers care that’s tailored to meet the unique needs of every resident.
Let’s Talk
If you’re exploring senior living options or just want to learn more about how Edgewood supports mental wellness, we’re here to help.
Email us anytime at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com—we’d love to hear from you.
