Geriatric psychiatry is a subspeciality within psychiatry that focuses on the emotional and mental disorders in older people above the age of 65. It involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of problems like depression, anxiety, dementia, schizophrenia, and more.
Given mental health problems among older people can stem from so many different factors, the treatment plan in geriatric psychiatry often adopts a holistic approach, involving the family members of the seniors and collaborating with other healthcare professionals like nurses and therapists.
Geriatric Psychiatrists improve the mental health of the elderly with various neuropsychiatric issues that are usually associated with the process of aging.
Common Problems they Experience
Senior citizens may experience a mental decline as they grow older; some more than others. Older adults can experience dementia, which leads to an impairment in basic functions and can increase the risk of other mental illnesses like depression, paranoia, and anxiety. Some common mental health conditions that are experienced by senior citizens include:
- Anxiety
- Sleep problems
- Sexual dysfunction
- Depression
- Verbal outbursts, loss of motor skills, aggression, lashing out, and other behavioral concerns
- Suicide rates
- Alcohol and substance abuse
This is where geriatric counseling services come in because they will help senior citizens deal with the various transitions that come with aging. The geriatric doctors in Bangalore help the patients manage their emotions, search for new sources of pleasure, and find positive support systems. A geriatric psychiatrist can help the patients cope with their fear of death, and also teach them to deal with grief as friends and family members pass away.
Mostly, older adults tend to opt for geriatric counseling to seek treatment for mental health problems that may not be related to aging. The number of geriatric patients seeking help with mental health is increasing now, more than before. This is mostly because of the increasing awareness of the importance of mental health among individuals of all age groups. Geriatric therapists help seniors address any issues from their childhood or early adulthood, their current life changes and adjustments, and if they are facing any stress or family concerns.
Promoting mental health in senior citizens is quite important because it encourages a healthy aging process and keeps them active in the golden years of their life. Myths that say the elderly are frail and helpless can often cause irritability in senior citizens. Geriatric counseling allows patients to make their own decisions and live independently. Even if they experience a slight decline in their cognitive abilities, they don’t let it affect their personality as they grow older.
At Cadabam's Hospitals, we take a multidisciplinary approach to the mental health issues of the elderly involving psychiatrists, neurologists, psychologists, and neuropsychologists. Our experienced team of experts draws up a customised treatment plan keeping in mind the needs and comforts of the senior citizen.
Services
- Consultation for neuropsychiatric problems in the elderly such as dementia, depression, etc.
- Screening, evaluation, and management
- Individual and family counseling
- Support groups for caregivers of people with dementia
- Elderly home care services for people with dementia
Get Best Geriatic Psychiatry: Why Cadabam’s Hospitals
Cadabam's Hospitals is one of the most trusted mental health care and psycho-social rehabilitation centers. Offering comprehensive and tailored solutions under a single roof, our multi-specialty team of experts works together to ensure patients’ better mental health and general well-being. We have over three decades of experience.
Our personalized and evidence-based approach has enabled us to write countless incredible stories of helping people live a healthier and happier life.
If you, your parents, or any senior person you know are dealing with emotional, mental, or neurological disorders, connect with us today and talk to our geriatric psychiatry specialist. Reach out to us @+91 9741476476.