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Geriatrics (Mental Health For Older Adults)

Geriatrics, specifically in the context of mental health for older adults, is a specialized field of healthcare that focuses on the unique mental health needs and challenges faced by the elderly population. It encompasses the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and support of mental health conditions that affect older individuals.

Late life is a time of transitions, with increased vulnerability to losses and illnesses that can lead to problems in memory and other cognitive abilities, emotion, and behavior. We aim to help identify the nature and causes of these common problems, and help our clients through cognitive training, therapies and medication, to continue to live with happiness and dignity.

Symptoms
Causes
Treatment
Speciality
  1. Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.
  2. Anxiety: Excessive worry, restlessness, or fear that can interfere with daily functioning.
  3. Cognitive Decline: Memory problems, confusion, and difficulties with reasoning or problem-solving.
  4. Social Withdrawal: Isolation, withdrawal from social activities, and a decrease in social interactions.
  5. Irritability: Mood changes, increased irritability, or agitation.
  6. Sleep Disturbances: Changes in sleep patterns, such as insomnia or excessive daytime sleepiness.
  7. Physical Symptoms: Unexplained physical complaints, aches, and pains that may be related to mental health issues.
  1. Neurological Changes: Age-related changes in brain structure and function can contribute to cognitive decline and mental health issues.
  2. Chronic Health Conditions: The presence of chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, or cancer can impact mental health.
  3. Medications: Side effects of medications or interactions between multiple medications can affect mental well-being.
  4. Grief and Loss: The loss of loved ones, retirement, or loss of physical abilities can lead to grief and depression.
  5. Social Isolation: Limited social interactions and loneliness can contribute to mental health problems.
  6. Financial Stress: Worries about financial security in later life can lead to anxiety and depression.
  7. Caregiver Stress: Family members caring for older adults may experience stress, which can affect the mental health of both the caregiver and the older adult.
  1. Psychotherapy: Individual or group therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and supportive counseling can help address mental health concerns.
  2. Medication: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline.
  3. Physical Activity: Regular exercise has been shown to improve mood and cognitive function in older adults.
  4. Social Engagement: Encouraging older adults to participate in social activities and maintain connections with friends and family can combat isolation.
  5. Cognitive Stimulation: Activities that challenge the mind, such as puzzles and games, can help maintain cognitive function.
  6. Caregiver Support: Providing support and education to family caregivers can improve the overall well-being of older adults.

The specialty primarily involved in Geriatrics (Mental Health for Older Adults) is Geriatric Psychiatry or Geropsychology. Professionals in this field specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating mental health issues specific to older adults, often considering the unique physical and emotional needs of this population.

Answers To Your Most Common Questions

Yes, mental health issues are common among older adults, including conditions like depression, anxiety, and cognitive disorders. These conditions can be effectively treated and managed through a combination of psychotherapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and social support. Early intervention is crucial for positive outcomes.

Normal aging can involve mild memory lapses and slower cognitive processing, but significant cognitive decline, such as memory loss that impairs daily functioning, may indicate a more serious condition like Alzheimer’s disease. A thorough assessment by a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis.

Family members and caregivers can support older adults by maintaining open communication, encouraging social engagement, providing assistance with daily activities when needed, and promoting a healthy lifestyle. Recognizing signs of mental health issues and seeking professional help early is crucial. Additionally, caregiver self-care is essential to prevent burnout and stress.

Meet Our Compassionate Team of Experts

DR PRATHEESH PJ

CEO & FOUNDER OF SOLACE GROUP CONSULTANT PSYCHIATRIST, DHA Certified Psychiatrist- MBBS, MD

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DR MANU N.A

CONSULTANT PSYCHIATRIST – MBBS, M.D, DNB

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DR RAMACHANDRAN KUTTY

CONSULTANT PSYCHIATRIST – MBBS, MD

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DR NATASHA ANTO

CONSULTANT PSYCHIATRIST - MBBS ,MD

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DR Sachin M

Consultant Psychiatrist, MBBS MD

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MARIYA JOSE

NEUROPSYCHOLOGIST

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Muhammed Rabeeh

Clinical Psychologist

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Soji Anna Philip

RCI Licensed Clinical Psychologist

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RINI ROY

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST

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Lakshmi C R

Psychiatric Social Worker

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PIYUSH T. JOSE

psychiatric social worker

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Arun

psychiatric social worker

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Aibi George

social worker

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ANN MARY CHERIAN

social worker

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VINU M KURIAN

social worker

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