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Helping Seniors Age in Place: Identifying Functional Issues and Solutions

Aging in place offers seniors the comfort and familiarity of their own homes, but it comes with its own set of challenges.

Addressing functional issues within the home environment is crucial to supporting seniors’ desires to live independently while ensuring their safety and well-being. In this blog post, we’ll explore common functional issues that can lead to moving to a care facility, offer practical solutions, and explain how an Aging Life Care Managers® can assist in creating a safer and more supportive home environment.

Aging Life Care Managers are dedicated to helping seniors age in place by providing personalized assessments, care plans and access to resources that promote independence and well-being.

Statistics Highlighting the Importance of Aging in Place

A significant number of older Americans prefer to remain in their homes as they age. According to a 2023 AARP survey, 77% of adults aged 50 and older want to stay in their current homes and communities as they age (AARP, 2023). However, functional issues can pose serious risks. For instance, falls are a major concern, with about one in four older adults experiencing a fall each year (CDC, 2023). Additionally, 68% of older adults report needing assistance with daily activities such as bathing and dressing, which underscores the need for appropriate home modifications and support (NIA, 2023).

Helping Seniors Age in Place

The Need for Personalized Assessment and Planning

To effectively support aging in place, a personalized assessment and care plan are essential. An Aging Life Care Professional® provides invaluable assistance by conducting a thorough evaluation of the home environment to identify specific risks and needs. This personalized assessment helps in developing customized care plans and recommending the most appropriate home modifications and safety equipment. By coordinating various services, from home health care to community resources, these professionals ensure a holistic approach to care. Their ongoing support involves continuous monitoring and adjustments to care plans as needs evolve. The Aging Life Care Association® highlights the critical role of these professionals in managing the complex needs of aging individuals and ensuring a safe, comfortable living environment.

Getting the Care You Need at Home
Free E-Book Planning for the Care You Need at Home

 

Common Functional Issues and Solutions

1. Risk of Falls

Issue: Falls are a leading cause of injury among older adults, with about one in four older adults falling each year (CDC, 2023). Factors contributing to falls include uneven flooring, poor lighting, and mobility limitations.

Solution: Implementing safety modifications such as installing grab bars, removing tripping hazards, and improving lighting can significantly reduce fall risks. Additionally, using non-slip mats and securing loose rugs can help create a safer environment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that these changes are essential in preventing falls and related injuries (CDC, 2023).

2. Need for Assistance with Personal Care

Issue: As seniors age, they may require assistance with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, and toileting. Difficulty performing these tasks can lead to safety risks and a diminished quality of life.

Solution: Installing grab bars in the bathroom, using shower chairs, and ensuring that essential items are within easy reach can help. In-home care services can also provide personal assistance, including help with daily activities and hygiene. According to the National Institute on Aging, modifying the home and accessing professional help can greatly improve safety and comfort (NIA, 2023).

3. Cognitive Decline

Issue: Cognitive impairments, including dementia, can impact a senior’s ability to manage daily tasks, remember medications, and respond to emergencies.

Solution: Implementing memory aids, medication management systems, and emergency response systems can provide support. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, creating a supportive and structured environment tailored to cognitive needs is crucial (Alzheimer’s Association, 2023).

Get Help for Aging Parents

4. Inadequate Home Design

Issue: Many homes are not designed with aging in mind, which can lead to hazards such as uneven flooring, poor lighting, and narrow doorways.

Solution: Modifications like widening doorways, improving lighting, and installing non-slip flooring can make homes safer. For practical guidance on remodeling to support aging in place, refer to the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) Remodeling Checklist provided by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that these changes can significantly reduce fall risks (CDC, 2023).

5. Social Isolation

Issue: Social isolation can adversely affect mental health and well-being in older adults.

Solution: Increasing social opportunities through community programs, virtual communication tools, and regular visits from family and friends can help alleviate isolation. The AARP provides resources and strategies to combat social isolation among older adults (AARP, 2023).

By proactively addressing functional issues and leveraging the expertise of an Aging Life Care Professional®, seniors can continue to live safely and comfortably in their homes.

This article was originally published by Diversified Nurse Consultants and was republished with permission.

About the Author:

Ginger Jones, RN, CMC, CNLCP, CDP is the Founder and CEO at Diversified Nurse Consultants. With extensive experience in Aging Life Care, Ginger is dedicated to helping seniors live independently and safely in their homes. Ginger is a professional member of the Aging Life Care Association and a Care Manager Certified through the National Academy of Certified Care Managers. For more information, visit Ginger’s profile or connect on Facebook.

 

long-distance caregivers need support

Caregiver Guide: Do’s and Don’ts for Engaging Loved Ones with Cognitive Decline

Caring for an older adult with cognitive difficulties, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, requires patience, empathy, and a thoughtful approach to daily activities. As our loved ones with dementia might have communication challenges, we become more attuned to observing body language and facial expressions. The right activities can provide a sense of purpose, stimulate memory, and improve overall well-being. However, choosing the wrong activities can lead to frustration or confusion. This guide offers practical advice on the dos and don’ts of engaging loved ones with cognitive decline.

Engaging Loved Ones with Cognitive Decline

Do:        Simplify tasks and break them down into smaller steps.

  • For example, if your loved one enjoyed cooking, involve them in simple tasks like stirring ingredients or setting the table. This allows them to participate without feeling overwhelmed by the complexity of the activity.
  • Familiar rote tasks can provide a sense of purpose and success i.e.: folding towels or setting the table.

Don’t:        Set up for failure

  • Avoid setting high expectations for perfection or completion of tasks. The goal is engagement, not mastery. If your loved one loses interest or struggles with a task, it’s okay to move on to something else without pressure. Try active listening techniques.

Do:        Promote social interaction

Don’t:        Overwhelm with large gatherings

  • Avoid large social gatherings or unfamiliar environments that could cause sensory overload or anxiety. Instead, keep interactions small and personal, with familiar faces and settings to provide a sense of security and comfort.

Do:        Watch television: many of us utilize television for entertainment but it can often become the primary source of structure and activity for the day.

  • Watching cooking shows can be good if you are looking to improve appetite but can also cause overeating.
  • Watching nature programs with positive content is engaging, however cycle-of-life or aggressive programming (like natural disasters) can produce anxiety. Baby animal shows can be a particular favorite as there is no plot to follow.
  • Watching beloved shows can be nostalgic and comforting, and comedy skit shows also have no plot to follow.
  • Consider what types of programs are watched at different times of day – something with no speaking and just photography is good for resting, and sports might spark a desire for more activity.

Don’t:        Allow TV to cause anxiety or be a substitute for activity or personal interaction

  • Watching the news can be distressing for some and cause anxiety
  • Confrontational talk show formats can be confusing and angry participants may display unwanted behaviors.
  • Sitting in front of the TV all day isn’t good for anyone, and this is not engaging in socialization or cognitive stimulation.

Do:        Incorporate music and art

Don’t:        Use Activities that require complex decision-making

  • Avoid activities that require complex decision-making or too many choices. This can be overwhelming and may lead to frustration. Instead, offer simple, clear options that allow for easy participation. Offer a choice between two things such as menu items or daily clothing choices.

Do:        Accept help when caregiving becomes overwhelming.

Don’t:        Set your expectations too high or schedule too full.

  • Try to go with the flow and understand things might not go exactly as planned and that’s okay. Schedule in extra time for activities or to get to appointments. If you feel frustrated, step away, regain composure (your loved one if not being difficult on purpose) and try again with a new energy. Read tips on how to deal with caregiver stress.

 

As you consider what activity choices to offer your loved one, consider variety and time of day. Include exercise and socialization, as well as hygiene and rest. Modify, modify, modify. If they seem overwhelmed with an activity, try simplifying to a point they can successfully engage. For example: a puzzle with fewer and larger pieces, simple matching games, and activities to stimulate fine motor skills.

Remember not to infantilize your loved one, but rather adjust to their needs. Be mindful of your loved ones’ response to an activity and be flexible with both them and yourself.

 

About the Author: Lisa Kaufman, MS, CMC, CTRS, C-EOLD is a certified care manager, an Aging Life Care Professional, and a certified End of Life Doula. She has owned and operated SeniorCare Options since 2001, and she is a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist.

Older American Woman

Seven Signs That an Aging Parent Needs Help

Does your aging parent need help?

As an Aging Life Care™ advisor, I know how fiercely older adults want to maintain their independence. Many feel that their adult children don’t understand them or are making something out of nothing — a fall, a burnt pot, a call from the police station. They make promises to ask for help shopping, assure a son they will only drive on familiar streets, and promise to hang up when an unsolicited call for money comes in. The need to be safe and the rejection of that safety in the name of independence and dignity is a real struggle.  So how do you know when safety should outweigh the desire to appear and remain independent?

Here are seven signs that your aging parent may need help:

 

1. You come for a visit, open the refrigerator to get a glass of juice and the expiration date was three months ago. The refrigerator may have a strong odor, and the kitchen may be full of rotten food.

 

2. Mail is piling up. Bills may be going unpaid, and utilities at risk of being shut off.

 

3. You’re not sure that medications are being taken correctly, due to changes in your parent’s vision, dexterity, or memory. Pills are still in their bottles, or medication boxes seem untouched between visits. You may find medications dropped or spilled on the floor.

 

4. You’re concerned about personal hygiene. You parent may be wearing soiled clothing, bathing infrequently, and not attending to personal care tasks such as oral hygiene.

 

5. “Mother is absolutely fine,” you hear your father say. And mother automatically agrees. After fifty plus years of marriage, they have learned how to compensate for one another, and they’re arm in arm on the road to trouble.

 

6. You’re receiving concerned phone calls or emails from friends or neighbors, who may be stepping in to provide help when they can, but are frustrated.

 

7. The car has noticeable new scratches and dents, maintenance is being ignored, and you’re concerned about your parent’s ability to drive safely.

 

If you notice just one of these happening with your parent, it is time to have a conversation. If you need help starting that conversation or implementing a plan of care, consider working with an Aging Life Care Professional. Aging Life Care Professionals™ understand the frustration felt by adult children and the desperation felt by older adults who want to hold on to their independence. With an objective perspective on the situation, we can help facilitate difficult family discussions and decision-making to address these and other concerns.

To locate an Aging Life Care Expert near you, search this directory of experts by zip code.

 

About the author: Miriam Zucker, LMSW, C-ASWCM is an Aging Life Care™ Specialist. She is founder of Directions in Aging, based in Westchester County, New York.


This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect official positions of the Aging Life Care Association™and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.

Senior Living Elder Daughter

A Daughter’s Perspective on Senior Living

Written by: Mary Ann Buckley MSW, LCSW-C

I have assisted many older adults in making moves to senior communities over the last 20 years. Last month I assisted my own mother in moving to a senior living community. Discussing the move, finding the perfect community, planning for, and making the actual move took on a new dimension.  I was the daughter and not the professional.

I have the benefit of knowing my own Mom throughout her adult life, compared to working with clients for a relatively brief time span. I also had the benefit of working side by side with my siblings in this process.

Moving a Parent Out of the Home

My mom and I had productive and honest in person conversations when I was at home visiting her. It was just the two of us in the house. Later in the evening, we talked about the future and her needs in a realistic manner. She shared her concerns, wishes, fears, and hopes. The same way she did when my father died suddenly 44 years ago from a massive heart attack. She was 50 years old, and I was the only child still at home when her world changed. I witnessed her work through her grief, learn to become independent, and recreate her life.

We toured a senior community, and she made her decision based on key factors that are important to her and have been her whole life. She chose a faith-based community that offered her the opportunity to attend mass and was closer to her daughters. Family and her faith are paramount to her life.

My siblings and I created a group text to allow us to stay in constant communication as we are not all in the same city. We felt that this communication was the best way to care for our mom. While I am the youngest in the family, my siblings often deferred to me for my professional advice. While I was happy to dispense advice, I had to remember that our mom is a fiercely independent woman who wants to remain that way. To her, I am her youngest daughter, not a professional.

I joined my siblings and Mom in planning what to take to her new apartment, packing up what was important to her, and then planning the actual move. I noticed during this process, she remained the mom in charge, and we remained in similar roles from childhood. My brother, the eldest, was the leader and my sisters and I were the workers. Above all, we worked together for her benefit. She bravely said a last goodbye to the house that hosted family holidays, birthdays, welcomed children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Plants Senior Living

Mom has been in her new apartment for about a month now. When I call her, I hear a calm voice, happily decorating and rearranging the apartment in just the right way. She tells me about the delicious meals and table mates, mass, and the view out her windows. She is settled and comfortable. I am fortunate to see this brave woman continue to tackle changes in her life in the manner that she always has. I’m also fortunate that I have assisted other older adults in similar moves, but this gave me a new perspective.

As with the families I work with as an Aging Life Care Manager, moving a parent out of the family home can be a challenging life event. We knew my mom would not embrace the move until she was truly ready. The move occurred in her time frame with her family fully supporting her.  This experience from this personal view, took on special meaning for me.

 

 

About the Author: Mary Ann Buckley, MSW, LCSW-C, is the director of Community Outreach and Education at Corewood Care. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Aging Life Care Manager who has over 30 years of experience in Social Work, 28 years with older adults and families and 20 of those years in Care Management. Mary Ann is a member of the Aging Life Care Association.

What Distinguishes an Aging Life Care Manager from Other Geriatric Care Managers?

Aging Life Care Management, also known as geriatric care management, focuses on improving the quality of life for older adults and their families through comprehensive planning and management of care needs. This involves addressing not only health concerns but also financial, legal, and social aspects to ensure the well-being of older adults.

Aging Life Care Professionals or Aging Life Care Managers are members of the Aging Life Care Association® (ALCA) and differ from Patient Advocates, Senior Advisors, Senior Navigators, and Elder Advocates. ALCA members must meet stringent education, experience, and certification requirements of the organization, and all members are required to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.

Aging Life Care Managers
Aging Life Care Managers Can Help

Engaging an Aging Life Care Manager can offer numerous benefits:

1. Expertise and Knowledge

Aging Life Care Managers bring specialized knowledge and experience in elder care, ensuring that the client receives the best possible care. They are well-versed in managing conditions such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other chronic illnesses. For example, they can recognize early signs of cognitive decline and coordinate with healthcare providers to manage it effectively. If a family is struggling to manage the needs of a beloved relative with Alzheimer’s? An Aging Life Care Manager can provide a detailed care plan, recommend suitable memory care facilities, and ensure that the parent receives appropriate therapies to slow disease progression.

2. Stress Reduction

By handling complex care tasks and providing emotional support, Aging Life Care Managers reduce the stress and burden on family caregivers. They can step in during emergencies, offering a 24/7 point of contact, which alleviates the constant worry families often experienceStudies have shown that family caregivers often experience high levels of stress, with about 40-70% showing significant symptoms of depression (American Psychological Association). Having professional support can significantly reduce these mental health challenges.

3. Improved Outcomes

An Aging Life Care Manager’s comprehensive approach can lead to better health outcomes and enhanced quality of life for the older adult. Continuous monitoring and timely interventions can prevent hospital readmissions and manage chronic conditions effectively. Research indicates that coordinated care management can reduce hospital readmission rates by up to 20%, highlighting the effectiveness of proactive care management (Finlayson et al.).

4. Efficiency

Aging Life Care Managers streamline care processes, reducing redundancies and ensuring efficient use of resources. They help avoid unnecessary hospitalizations and inappropriate placements, which can save significant costs. For example, an Aging Life Care Manager might identify that a client’s frequent hospital visits are due to medication mismanagement and work to set up a system where medications are properly administered at home, thus reducing the need for hospital care (Yang).

Aging Life Care Professionals are distinguished by their membership in ALCA, which sets them apart through rigorous education, experience, and certification standards. Aging Life Care Professionals must meet stringent education and certification requirements, which include formal higher education in related fields such as gerontology, nursing, or social work, and professional certifications like Care Manager Certified (CMC), Certified Case Manager (CCM) . Additionally, they adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, ensuring a high level of professionalism and quality care.

Knowing when to engage the services of an Aging Life Care Professional can be challenging. Here are some indicators that it might be time to seek help:

  • The person you are caring for has multiple medical or psychological issues.
  • They are unable to live safely in their current environment.
  • They are not pleased with current care providers and require advocacy.
  • They are confused about their own financial and/or legal situation.
  • They have limited or no family support.
  • Your family is “burned out” or confused about care solutions.
  • You have limited time and/or expertise in dealing with the individual’s chronic care needs and/or do not live close by.
  • Your family is at odds regarding care decisions.
  • You need education and/or direction in dealing with behaviors associated with dementia.

When evaluating Aging Life Care Professionals, consider the following:

  • Credentials and Certification: Ensure the Aging Life Care Professional is certified and a member of ALCA.
  • Experience: Look for professionals with substantial experience in geriatric care management.
  • References and Reviews: Seek references from previous clients and read reviews to gauge their reputation and effectiveness.
  • Compatibility: Choose someone who is compatible with your family and understands your specific needs and preferences.
  • Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial; the Aging Life Care Professional should be able to clearly explain care plans and updates.

Aging Life Care Management is not just about addressing immediate health concerns but also about providing a holistic and proactive approach to care. This includes planning for future needs, advocating for the client within the healthcare system, and supporting the family through emotional and logistical challenges.

“It’s about enhancing the overall quality of life for both the older adult and their family.”

Get Help for Aging Parents
 

Planning for healthy aging involves being proactive about your health, finances, and lifestyle choices. Here are some key pieces of advice from ALCA:

  • Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mental health to stay physically and mentally fit.
  • Plan Financially: Save and invest wisely to ensure financial stability in your later years. Consider long-term care insurance and other financial products that can help cover future care needs.
  • Stay Informed: Educate yourself about aging and the resources available to support you. Stay connected with community services and support networks.
  • Be Proactive About Healthcare: Regular health check-ups and screenings can help detect and manage potential health issues early.
  • Build a Support Network: Cultivate strong relationships with family, friends, and community members who can provide support as you age.

Aging Life Care Management is an invaluable resource for families navigating the complexities of elder care. These professionals play a pivotal role in ensuring that older adults receive comprehensive, compassionate care while supporting and relieving the burdens on their families. By understanding and utilizing the services provided by these professionals, families can enhance the quality of life for their loved ones and themselves. For more detailed information and resources, the Aging Life Care Association website is an excellent place to start.

 

 

This article originally appeared on Pallas Care Blog, and was reposted with permission.

 

About the Author:

Ashlyn Xu, Pallas Care’s USC Leonard Davis School of Gerontology summer intern, had the opportunity to learn more about the field of Aging Life Care™. The resources provided by the Aging Life Care Association® (ALCA), a nonprofit membership association of Aging Life Care Managers®, helped her to learn how engaging a geriatric care manager can improve the quality of life for older adults.

moving aging parents and selling the house

Tips for Rightsizing not Downsizing

Practical Tips from an Expert

As many aging adults face the prospect of leaving their homes for smaller living spaces, there are a few key strategies that can make the transition happen in a much less stressful and smooth fashion. I like to think of it as rightsizing, not downsizing.

by Marie LeBlanc, BS, MBA – Aging Life Care Association™ Corporate Partner

 

Start with the basics

Often people have a very difficult time looking at empty rooms and understanding, spatially, what can actually fit.  This can be compounded by special mobility needs considerations.  We find that completing a scaled floor plan using the client’s actual furniture dimensions is critical to understanding – and accepting – what can reasonably fit in a new space.  Often there are trade-offs to be made between pieces of furniture and other belongings that have significant sentimental value since not everything will fit.  We encourage clients to start their transition journey armed with the facts needed to make solid decisions.

 

Don’t force things on loved ones

It is basic human nature to want to preserve family traditions.  However, many  clients have children with established homes filled with their own things and not much room to spare to add more from mom’s and dad’s collections.  Additionally, differences in taste, décor and lifestyle often drive the desire and need for a different style of furnishings.  We increasingly find that children may want to take on a few items – perhaps even small things that are sentimentally significant but, by and large, they cannot or do not want the things mom and dad are not taking.  Opening a general conversation early in the transition process to let the children know that there will be items “available” can lead to healthy discussion regarding what is truly desired and will be cherished rather than adding more stress to an already intense situation.

 

Purge early, purge often

For the most part, once an item – or two or three or four – are out of sight they are out of mind.  It is very easy to fill closets, attics, cellars, and garages with our stuff and never think about it again.  Until it’s time to move and then the full impact of “all that stuff” hits home.  We counsel clients to begin the effort to sort and organize early on and often as soon as they are thinking about a move.  If they can fill just one extra trash bag per week and include it with their regular pick-up or dump run, at the end of one year they will have handled enough to fill a thirty-yard dumpster.

The same concept holds true for donations and hazardous materials disposal.  Start as early as possible in the transition process to take advantage of charitable organizations’ pickups in your area.   Often they only come on a regular schedule but can only take a limited amount of stuff.   Towns will generally schedule one-to-two hazardous material drop-off dates per year.  Taking advantage of these services can save a client hundreds of dollars in disposal fees.

With solid planning and an experienced guiding hand, a client’s transition can be a positive change and the first step to a happier, more social lifestyle.

Working with an Aging Life Care Professional™ can help eliminate many of the bumps in the road. Connect with an expert in your area by visiting aginglifecare.org.

 
About the author: Marie LeBlanc, BS, MBA, is the president and owner of Transitions Liquidation Services in Hyannis, MA, a move management and rightsizing company founded in 2002.  Transitions Liquidation Services has completed over 3,0000 transitions and Marie is an active speaker on the topics of moving, rightsizing and hoarding.  Follow Marie on Facebook and LinkedIn.


This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute, nor is it intended to be a substitute for, professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information on this blog does not necessarily reflect official positions of the Aging Life Care Association™ and is provided “as is” without warranty. Always consult with a qualified professional with any particular questions you may have regarding your or a family member’s needs.

Breaking the Stigma: Embracing Mental Health Treatment in Older Adults

By Sam van Kalkeren, MSN, RN, CMC, CDP, CADDCT – Aging Life Care Association®

Breaking the Stigma: Embracing Mental Health Treatment in Older Adults

Mental health is just as important as physical health for older adults. Let’s break the stigma and prioritize mental well-being. #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth

Many people with mental illness report that the stigma surrounding mental illness is more challenging to deal with than the mental illness itself. Stigma can make reaching out for help difficult, leaving someone feeling judged, alone, or as though no one could understand what they are going through.

Stigma is basically a brand of shame put on a person or group of people. It’s based on negative attitudes and beliefs that aren’t always true. According to the National Library of Medicine, is “characterized by negative stereotypes, prejudice, and discrimination, is a significant impediment in psychiatric care, deterring the timely provision of this care and hindering optimal health outcomes.” Stigma creates perceptions that cause the public to “fear, avoid, and discriminate against people with mental illnesses,” according to a report by the President’s New Freedom Commission on Mental Health.

There is stigma associated with mental illness. This ethics-laden issue is a barrier to individuals seeking or engaging in treatment services.

Mental health stigma can either be public stigma, self-stigma, or a combination of the two. Often, public stigma can create self-stigma (if it doesn’t already exist).

breaking the stigma of mental illness in older adults

Breaking the Stigma: Embracing Mental Health Treatment in Older Adults

 

Examples of Mental Illness Stigma

People in the media and even in our communities will refer to someone with a mental illness as “dangerous,” “crazy,” or “incompetent” rather than unwell. There is often an idea that if you ask for help, you are “weak.” These examples cause more people to suffer in silence than realize it is braver to seek help and not struggle alone. There is also significant stigma in the language we use to describe behaviors that we assume are associated with a diagnosis.

Inaccurate stereotypes, labels, and descriptions all contribute to someone’s ability to ask for help. Someone labeled as a “procrastinator” may be struggling with anxiety. Telling them to “try harder” and “get over it” may not motivate them because it’s inaccurate to what’s going on for them. When someone refuses to eat, saying “they should just eat” can cause more harm. Saying someone “committed suicide” is yet another form of hurtful language implying the person “committed” an action, which is often seen as a crime instead of a mental illness. We need to be more aware of the way we add to the stigma against people with mental illnesses.

Stigma creates a barrier to mental health services, which, as a result, can create isolation and avoidance.

 

The Harmful Effects of Stigma 

Some harmful effects of stigma include:

  • Feelings of shame, hopelessness, and isolation
  • Reluctance to ask for help or to get treatment
  • Lack of understanding by family, friends, or others
  • Fewer opportunities for employment or social interaction
  • Bullying, physical violence, or harassment
  • Self-doubt – the belief that you will never overcome your illness or be able to achieve what you want in life.

The most significant consequence of stigma is that people don’t get the treatment they need. Hence, fewer than half of those with a mental health condition get treatment, according to Mental Health America. People are afraid to disclose that they have mental health problems. They fear they will be treated differently.

 

Reducing Stigma

To reduce stigma, we all must commit to action—and many are very simple. Awareness of our language is one of the most significant changes we can all make, causing us to confront myths and stereotypes and become more open to the challenges someone may face. Becoming educated on different mental health topics allows us to become more aware of our language. Attending seminars and reading the research (including what you’re doing right now) are ways we can be actively engaged in reducing stigma. Understanding also creates empathy, so don’t be afraid to talk about it!

 

Mental Health Stereotypes

Next, confront negative stereotypes when they come up in conversations. Educate people against negative, inaccurate language to describe someone who might be struggling. Lean into helping them understand how saying they experienced a “panic attack” when maybe it was elevated stress could create harm for someone who struggles with panic. Remember, people are not their illness, so be mindful of describing people with mental illness as someone who “lives with” or “has…” vs. that “they are…”. Share your education with family, friends, and people in your circles. An important reminder when sharing your information or offering someone feedback is to remember they were probably uninformed, so be sensitive in your delivery. This can make all the difference to them leaning in versus rejecting what you share.

Helping Older Adults breaking the stigma of mental illness

 

Learn About Mental Illness Symptoms

While learning more about mental illnesses, learn how to become a faithful ally —whether within your community, online, or different activist groups. Interacting with people who have mental illness and becoming an ally can also help you better understand some of the struggles they face regularly. Understanding people for who they are rather than their illness is also essential.

If you have ever struggled with stigma or mental health, it’s also vital for you to get the help you need. Reach out to people you trust who can help you find the best services. Don’t be afraid to lead by example by sharing about asking and receiving help when and if you need it. This story could save someone else’s life. Owning your experience helps not only you as well as others. Speaking up can help dispel myths and even empower others to know it is ok for them to get help. Together, we can all help people understand that mental illness is not shameful and can often be helped.

Together, we can all learn how to better offer support and acceptance to family, friends, neighbors, and community members who have mental health challenges. As a result of all of us leaning in to do our part in breaking the stigma, more people will be able to get the actual help they need and, as a result, live more fulfilling, healthier lives.

 

Mental Health Resources and Support: 

Help is available. 

Take the initiative to educate yourself about common mental health disorders in older adults, signs and symptoms to watch out for, and appropriate ways to offer support and assistance. Here are some resources you can explore to learn more about aging and mental health.

For additional assistance for yourself or a loved one dealing with mental health issues, consider hiring an Aging Life Care Manager to help you navigate care.


This article originally appeared on OConnorPG.com April 2024. It has been edited with permission/approval of the original author for aginglifecare.org.

About the Author:

Sam van Kalkeren, MSN, RN, CMC, CDP, CADDCT is the Director of Aging Services at O’Connor Professional Group. He has been working as a psychiatric RN since 2012 and is a member of the Aging Life Care Association. He is a Care Manager Certified, Certified Alzheimer’s Disease, Dementia Care Trainer, and a Certified Dementia Practitioner through the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners.  Sam has worked with all age populations, from pediatrics to geriatrics, suffering from mental illness. He has experience working with clients suffering from substance use and co-occurring disorders, complex mental health diagnoses, neurocognitive disorders, and personality disorders. Sam received his Master of Science in Nursing degree, specializing in Leadership and Management, from Aspen University. He invites you to connect with him by visiting the O’Conner Professional Group blog or following Sam on LinkedIn.

 

Unlock Expert Insights: Free ‘Ask an Aging Life Care Manager®’ Virtual Sessions in May

Free “Ask an Aging Life Care Manager” virtual sessions to be held most Fridays in May to celebrate National Aging Life Care™ Month and Older Americans Month. Participants can ask professional Aging Life Care Managers® their questions about aging and care planning. Registration is necessary and is on a first come, first served basis at aginglifecare.org.

Care ManagerIn response to the increasing complexities of the aging journey and the rising trend of “solo agers,” the Aging Life Care Association® (ALCA) is offering a new initiative to provide vital support for family caregivers and individuals navigating the challenges of aging. To celebrate May as National Aging Life Care™ Month, ALCA will host free, virtual small group sessions, allowing participants to engage with experts, ask questions, and gain insights into aging and care planning.

“It’s often an emergency or health diagnosis that pushes families to talk about care planning. Without a clear understanding of their loved ones’ needs or effective advocacy strategies, they can quickly become overwhelmed.”

Event Details:

  • What: “Ask an Aging Life Care Manager” Series
  • When: Fridays May 3May 10May 17, and May 31 (no session May 24)
  • Time: 4pm ET
  • Where: Virtual Session (Registration Required)
  • Registration: Visit aginglifecare.org to register

Kate Granigan, MSW, LICSW President of ALCA’s Board of Directors, states, “It’s often an emergency or health diagnosis that pushes families to talk about care planning. Without a clear understanding of their loved ones’ needs or effective advocacy strategies, they can quickly become overwhelmed.”

With the “Ask an Aging Life Care Manager” series, ALCA emphasizes the importance of open discussions and proactive planning to alleviate financial burdens and reduce stress for all parties involved.

Event Schedule:

  • One session most Fridays in May (May 3, 10, 17 & 31) at 4 pm ET
  • Small-group discussions with an Aging Life Care Manager®
  • Free of charge in honor of Aging Life Care™ Month

“Ask an Aging Life Care Manager” series is a complimentary virtual platform to introduce people to the resources and services offered by Aging Life Care Professionals®. These experts offer a holistic, client-centered approach to care, specializing in crisis intervention, housing, health and disability, advocacy, family legal needs, and financial and local resources.

ALCA CEO Julie Wagner hopes these conversations will raise awareness about the Aging Life Care field, emphasizing, “With a growing number of individuals choosing to ‘solo age’ or live apart from immediate family, ALCA wants people to know that help is available.”

Registration for the “Ask an Aging Life Care Manager” series is open now and will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Click here for more information and to register.

About the Aging Life Care Association® (ALCA)
The Aging Life Care Association® (ALCA) was formed in 1985 to advance dignified, coordinated care for older adults in the United States. With nearly 2,000 members nationwide, Aging Life Care Professionals® have cared for about two million older adults over its history. ALCA Members are distinguished from others practicing care management as they must meet stringent education, experience, and certification requirements. Members may be trained in several fields including, but not limited to counseling, gerontology, mental health, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychology, or social work; with a specialized focus on issues related to aging and elder care.