Mental health is often overlooked by older generations, but it can be just as important as physical health. If you are concerned for your older loved one’s mental well-being, you may want to suggest that they go for a mental health screening. This can be easier said than done. Because many older individuals do not take mental health seriously, they can often be dismissive of seeking treatment. In this article, we discuss ways to approach mental health screenings that may be more effective for discussions with your elders.
What is a Mental Health Screening?
A mental health screening is a questionnaire done by a primary care physician or other general care doctor. These questions may look at one’s general emotional health and well-being throughout their day-to-day life. They may also ask questions about your family’s history of mental health. Overall, this isn’t done for diagnosis, but rather to see if mental health services may be right for the individual.
What Does a Mental Health Screening Look For?
Mental health screenings can look for signs of conditions such as depression, anxiety, social isolation, and more. For older adults, screenings may also identify early signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Any of these conditions can impact your loved one’s daily life. Generally, early intervention for mental health conditions can lead to more effective treatment and a better quality of life.
Talking to Your Older Loved One
The best way to approach this topic with an older loved one is through care and empathy. Try to be as non-judgmental as you can, while expressing your concerns. Personal observations can help your loved one see things from your perspective. Where possible, discuss it one-on-one. You are not having an intervention. Bringing up your concerns in a group setting can cause your loved one to get defensive.
Navigating Stigma
Many older adults grew up at a time when mental health was not openly discussed. For many, it was heavily stigmatized or dismissed. As a result, reactions of shame, denial, or refusal when topics of mental healthcare come up can be common. It is important to try to normalize care in your conversation. One way you can explain it to them is that screenings are a part of routine care, and that everyone should screen as a safety precaution. Try to assure your loved one that seeking care, even preventative screenings, is a sign of maintaining their health. It is an overall positive to go for health screenings of any kind.
Mental Health Screenings with Their Doctor
Encourage your loved one to go for a mental health screening during their next doctor’s visit. If they are uncomfortable with being questioned on their mental well-being, offer to go with them.
After a Screening
After your loved one participates in a mental health screening, their doctor may recommend next steps. This can include as little as another screening down the line. If they believe there may be signs of a condition, they may refer your loved one to a therapist or other mental health professional. If they notice symptoms of dementia, they may refer your loved one to a neurologist.
Professional Care At Home
If your loved one is experiencing depression, social isolation, or other mental health conditions, additional assistance may be advised. In-home care can help reduce feelings of isolation and make your loved one’s life easier. A certified home health aide from Safe Harbor may be able to help.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information, contact us or call (718)-979-6900.
