Ways You Can Improve Your Ageing Parents' Mental Health

Mental health is a priority for people of all ages. When an individual is ageing, physical health problems or detachment from loved ones may lead to mental health issues. According to World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 15% of adults aged 60 and over have a mental disorder.

Older adults may experience more stress, affecting their functional ability. Specific health problems, such as heart disease, may also be linked to mental illnesses such as depression. There are certain things you cannot control. But, you can attempt to improve your ageing parent's mental health in a few ways, especially if they live alone and suffer from memory problems.

Minimize Their Loneliness

If your loved one resides alone, they may be feeling lonely. It is particularly tough if the seniors have dementia or similar problems. You can look into retirement homes like Sagecare to make their life simpler. Living in a family-oriented retirement residence will enable them to stay safe and healthy. It will also reduce their loneliness since they can interact with nurses and other residents.

Your mind will also be at ease knowing that your family member is living in a secure environment. A place where they don't have to be completely alone might positively impact their mental health.

Make Visits a Priority

Whether your loved one lives at their own home or an elder care residence, they will yearn to see you as often as possible. But, you may not be able to go where they are all the time. When you can't make it, give them a video call to make up for it. The chances are that nothing will make them happier than seeing you in person and spending some time with you. Try to make it a priority to schedule frequent visits. 

Have Heart-to-Heart Conversations

When a parent starts ageing, your ideas of an interesting conversation might not be the same. But, that shouldn't stop you from having discussions with them. If you have kids of your own, you could share any happy moments or problems with your parents. If your parent is suffering from a mental health problem, they may open up to you if you have a heart-to-heart with them.

Take Them on a Day Trip

Take them out to a place they enjoy. It could be something as simple as an ice-cream shop they enjoy, or something more significant such as a road trip a few hours away. Taking your parents out on a retreat, whether it's for a day or longer, will take their minds off of their problems. It will also help them feel better, and your bond with them will become stronger.

Sort Out Their Finances

If your parents are getting older, unmanaged finances might be stressing them out. The stressors could range from unpaid bills to proper deposits in bank accounts or inadequate savings. Sometimes, sorting out finances doesn't mean you have to provide financial assistance. They may have enough funds but lack a method to sort them out.

When people get older, they might become targets for financial exploitation, which you can help avoid. Figure out what kind of help they need and organize things for them. You may need to redirect their mail, reactivate their bank account, or renew debit or credit cards.

When your loved one starts to age, it can be tough to see them suffer. Luckily, there are ways you can make their life easier and bring smiles to their faces!