Senior Issues

Advancing in age is a normal life process but sometimes aging presents senior issues with complex challenges that can easily overwhelm them. Senior issues including problems with health, family, and financial insecurity. Although therapy cannot eliminate the stresses seniors face, it offers a confidential place to explore issues with a therapist while receiving validation and support.

An older man in a plaid shirt sits on a couch, leaning forward with his hand over his mouth, appearing deep in thought or concerned—perhaps reflecting on seeking mental health services like those offered at Choices Psychotherapy.

Facts About Senior Issues

According to the National Council on Aging:

  • One in four older adults experiences some mental disorder including depression and anxiety disorders, and dementia. This number is expected to double to 15 million by 2030.
  • Depression affects seven million older Americans, and many do not receive treatment.
  • The number of older adults with substance abuse problems is expected to double to five million by 2020.
  • Two-thirds of older adults with mental health problems do not receive the treatment they need. Current preventative services for this population are extremely limited.

  • People aged 85+ have the highest suicide rate of any age group. Older white men have a suicide rate almost six times that of the general population.

  • Untreated substance abuse and mental health problems among older adults are associated with poor health outcomes, higher health care utilization, increased complexity of the course and prognosis of many illnesses, increased disability and impairment, compromised quality of life, increased caregiver stress, increased mortality, and a higher risk of suicide.

  • For most older adults, good health ensures independence, security, and productivity as they age. Yet millions struggle every day with health and safety challenges such as chronic disease, falls, and mental health issues—all of which can severely impact the quality of life.

Symptoms of Senior Issues

Based on GoodTherapy.org, statistics show that about 15% of adults over the age of 60 have a mental health condition.

  • Anxiety
  • Sexual dysfunction and sleep problems
  • Depression
  • Behavioral concerns, such as aggression, motor overactivity or wandering, and verbal outbursts, these are often caused by delirium, depression, or dementia
  • High suicide rates
  • Alcohol and substance dependency

Therapists & Psychiatrists Specializing in Senior Issues

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