Therapy for Seniors in Albuquerque: Supporting Emotional Wellness
According to WebMD, as many as one in four older adults experience mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Ignoring the risk of these can leave a senior unable to make the most of their retirement in Albuquerque and enjoy all the activities and amenities on offer in this part of New Mexico.
Read on to learn more about why therapy for seniors is often a wise choice in these circumstances and how to talk to your loved one about getting professional help.
Staying Emotionally Well in Your Senior Years
Emotional wellness is the foundation for good health in your senior years. When your emotions are in a good place, they have a positive impact on every other aspect of your well-being, including your physical and mental health, your relationships with others, and your overall happiness.
It's particularly crucial for seniors because retirement often brings about significant life changes and upheavals, such as the loss of a loved one or the onset of a new health condition.
Learning how to manage your emotional health can help you stay resilient and navigate these issues more effectively. Sometimes, that requires some outside guidance, which is why therapy can be helpful.
Mental Health Challenges for Seniors
Since retirement comes with both rewards and challenges, it's natural that there are some mental health risks. Here are the most common ones.
Depression
Depression is a medical diagnosis for intense, low moods beyond the regular ups and downs. Depression can happen in your senior years after grief, illness, or a loss of purpose after retiring from a career.
It's important not to mistake signs of depression as the normal aging process.
Anxiety
Anxiety is a severe state of worry and can appear in many forms, such as insomnia, avoidance strategies, and even physical symptoms like a racing heart. Anxiety can happen when worries spiral, often from a stressful event like a financial or health issue.
Loneliness
There is always a risk in old age of becoming isolated from your long-established community.
Family members may grow up and leave home, or a loved one may pass. Social isolation can put you at greater risk of health issues such as cognitive decline, and it can also trigger other mental health symptoms like depression.
Cognitive Decline
Some seniors might face a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer's. This can bring a lot of emotions to the surface, including fear, anxiety, confusion, and anger. Therapy is always crucial after such a life-changing diagnosis.
Therapy for Seniors: How It Can Help
Emotional issues aren't always fleeting, and sometimes they are so profound that they can impact your daily life. When that happens, it may be time to consider a more professional support option, such as therapy.
Therapy from a licensed professional provides a safe space where a senior can discuss their emotions and challenges. The experience and knowledge that a professional offers mean they can be more than someone to listen; they can provide practical coping strategies to help manage these feelings.
Over time, a good therapist can help an older person feel more self-confident and rediscover their purpose.
Types of Therapy: Finding the Right Senior Support
Before you can proceed with therapy, you'll need to understand and choose from the various options available in Albuquerque. The most common counseling options are individual, group, and family:
Individual Therapy
If you want private sessions with a professional, individual therapy is the right option for you. It's ideal for those who want privacy to share sensitive information that they may feel uncomfortable sharing with others, such as dealing with grief.
Group Therapy
Group therapy can be an advantage for some, as it provides interaction with others, which can be beneficial in combating social isolation. Group therapy also helps you connect with others in similar situations.
Family Therapy
Sometimes, it can be beneficial to have family therapy if you are experiencing conflicts, communication issues, or caregiving challenges. Remember that you should always choose a treatment that feels comfortable to you so you can get the most out of the sessions.
Finding Therapists Who Specialize in Senior Mental Health
If you have decided to seek therapy, it's a good idea to find a professional who specializes in senior mental health. They will understand some of the unique challenges that come with aging, such as chronic illness and life transitions.
They'll also be able to offer compassionate care to those suffering from cognitive conditions like memory loss and early dementia. Therapists can, in some cases, collaborate with other medical practitioners to provide a more rounded, holistic approach to a senior's well-being.
Aging Resilience: Other Wellness Activities
Therapy doesn't have to be a standalone way of dealing with emotional issues. It works best when combined with other wellness activities. You could try:
- A low-impact exercise class like yoga
- Mindfulness and meditation sessions
- Arts and crafts workshops
- Social events
All of these can help lower your stress levels, boost your mood, and enhance your social interactions. Our senior living community, Morada Albuquerque, offers a wealth of daily activities to make it easy for residents to find something they will enjoy.
Talking to Family About Therapy
If you notice that your loved one is struggling with their mental health, it can feel challenging to bring up the subject. Nevertheless, early therapy support is vital, so choose a quiet time to discuss your concerns with your loved one.
Highlight some of the benefits of therapy and offer to help them sign up for wellness activities that can form part of their recovery. Most importantly, listen to what your loved one has to say about their emotional challenges.
Therapy for Seniors: Finding the Right Support
Don't ignore your emotional and mental wellness in your later years. Having a positive mindset will allow you to experience more joy in your retirement, so consider seeking therapy for seniors to receive the professional support you need.
Book a tour of Morada in Albuquerque today to discover more about our exceptional approach to personalized care, fun on-site activities, and breathtaking views.