Why is it difficult to diagnose mental health issues in the elderly?

It is very important to detect signs of mental health problems in older people in order to provide them with the required treatment.

New Delhi: mental health problems in the elderly are a pressing problem throughout the world.
According to the World Health OrganizationBy 2050, the world population over the age of 60 is expected to reach two billion. Statistics say that more than 20 percent of people aged 55 and over may suffer from some type of mental health problem.

One of the possible negative consequences of the rapid aging of the world population is the increase in the number of people with mental disorders, which will soon overwhelm the mental health systems of all countries.

Psychological experts believe that biological changes can interfere with brain function and social changes can lead to isolation or worthlessness.

The more pressing problem, however, according to some experts, is that elderly people suffering from mental health problems in many Indian households live in denial.

Many older men and women refuse to recognize it as a major ailment.

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What are the consequences of mental health problems in older people?

Experts believe that mental health problems, including high-intensity stress, anxiety, panic attacks, and even depression, can have a tremendous impact on an older person’s ability to carry out their daily activities, making them dependent and reducing their quality of life. of life.

“The first step in reducing negative consequences is simply to make a diagnosis. Unfortunately, too often mental health issues go undiagnosed and untreated, and many older people struggle without the right help or at all,” Dr. Barbara key ringsaid a psychologist.

“Many older people feel that mental health problems are a sign of weakness and therefore do not admit to having problems,” he added.

Do mental health problems get worse with age?

Mental illness has nothing to do with aging. According to the National Institute of Mental Healththe disorders affect younger adults more often than the elderly, but the elderly are less likely to seek help.

Dr. Keyling said that too many people view the symptoms of dementia and depression as a normal part of aging. About 5 million adults over the age of 65 have Alzheimer’s, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Anxiety problems also often accompany depression. They include a variety of problems, from hoarding syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder to phobias and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Symptoms of mental health problems in the elderly

It is very important to detect signs of mental health problems in older people in order to provide them with the required treatment. Occasional forgetfulness is normal, but persistent memory or cognitive loss can be extremely serious.

  Symptoms and warning signs to look out for stress, tips to deal with the mental health issue

Here are some symptoms and signs of mental health problems in older people:

  • changes in appearance
  • Confusion, disorientation, or trouble concentrating
  • Diminish or increased appetite
  • depression and mood swings
  • Feelings useless
  • Memory loss
  • Chronic aches and pains
  • social retreat

Disclaimer: The hints and tips mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or dietitian before beginning any fitness program or making changes to your diet.

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