Aging Issues
There is a common saying, “youth is wasted on the young,” and as we age, this sentiment feels increasingly more applicable to our lives. Our youth and vitality seem to be fading, and it is easy to become depressed and anxious when looking toward our remaining years. Getting older often means we have more illnesses, losses, and medications ahead of us- a distressing thought for many.
When it comes to coping with these negative thoughts and feelings, there is a tendency to just try and push through on our own. However, choosing to not seek help can lead to isolation and loneliness. Don’t allow the rest of your life to simply pass you by. Learning to cope with aging can bring new vitality and the invigorating possibilities that accompany therapy specifically developed for you.
In addition to therapy, what can I do to improve my mental health?
A major step in mental health recovery is ensuring you are doing as much as possible for your physical health as well. Although certain activities may be more difficult than they used to be, there are many options to keep your body healthy while you age. Going for a short, daily walk, working in your garden, or going for a swim are all great, low-impact options to help maintain physical health in old age.
Alzheimer’s and Dementia
One of the scariest mental health concerns we face as we age is Alzheimer’s Disease. While Alzheimer’s is more common for adults over 65, is not a typical part of aging, so it will not affect everyone. For many, the thought of mental decline is what can lead to depression and anxiety. Though there is not a known cure for Alzheimer’s, there are treatments available that can help maintain your current level of functioning for as long as possible. If you are afraid of being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease, speaking with a therapist may help. As with many diseases, early intervention is crucial for diagnosing, treating, and preparing for the future. If you or a loved one are concerned about having Alzheimer’s, IBH has specialized practitioners dedicated to providing you with unparalleled care.
I’ve heard the phrases Alzheimer’s and dementia used interchangeably. Is there a difference?
Dementia is a broad term used to describe confusion, memory loss, and other brain impairments related to decision making and carrying out everyday activities. There are many different types of dementia, but the most prevalent cause of dementia is Alzheimer’s Disease.
What are the early signs of Alzheimer’s Disease?
- General forgetfulness
- Misplacing daily use items (keys, wallet, etc.)
- Getting lost in familiar places
- Trouble remembering certain words or phrases
- Unable to recognize familiar people
- Difficulty completing tasks independently
- Using unusual words for common items
Other types of dementia
- Lewy Body Dementia
- Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
- Frontotemporal Dementia
- Huntington’s Disease
- Parkinson’s Disease Dementia
- Vascular Dementia
- Korsakoff Syndrome