EMOTIONAL HEALTH IN ELDERLY

Emotional health reflects our psychological wellbeing – how we think, how we respond or

react to given situation, and how we deal with stress. It is balance between our positive and

negative thoughts. Aging is a process and stage of life where in emotional wellbeing not only reflects the emotions, but health problems also largely contribute to the structure.

Emotional changes commonly seen in elderly

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Loneliness and isolation

• Sense of helplessness due to physical or financial problems

• Refusal to accept changes around

• Stubbornness to follow some things

• Grief due to loss of loved one

Reasons for these changes

1. Chronic medical illness like cancer

2. Physical disability / accidents

3. Long standing pain

4. Medications interaction

5. Alcohol or substance abuse

6. Poor diet

7. Bedridden status or restricted mobility

8. Drop in socioeconomic status

9. Retirement or change in place

How does it affect mental and physical health?

• Loss of independence

• Finding it more difficult to do the things one used to do

• Changes in mood

• Feeling low energy level

• Change in eating habits

• Sleep problems

• Withdrawing from people and activities

• Feeling angry, upset, worried, or scared

• Engaging in Smoking and drinking

• Suicidal thoughts

• Obsessive thinking or compulsive behavior

Mental health problems are many times under diagnosed and under reported by doctors

and older people themselves. Guilt and stigma surrounding these conditions makes people

reluctant to ask for help. Discrimination should be avoided. Elderly should get equal chance

to participate in meaningful activities. MIND matters.

How to deal with emotional changes?

• Take control of health. Exercise. Eat healthy

• Do group and social activities. Stay connected

• Involve in spiritual or religious activities

• Share thoughts and experiences - Writing diaries

• Read books

• Relaxation with music, be with nature. Do Gardening

• Keep in touch with friends and relatives by phone, messages, letters

• Spend time with grandchildren

• Learn some new art

• Volunteer events

• Travel to various places

• Talk to someone. Help your thoughts.

Develop gratitude and acknowledge the smallest act of kindness.

Be positive. Be happy.