Seniors

We believe that effective treatment must be tailored to the individual. Our team works closely with each client to develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and goals. This could include a combination of psychotherapy, medication management and lifestyle changes.

We are skilled in conducting comprehensive assessments to accurately diagnose a wide range of mental health conditions, and are committed to providing care based on your specific needs.

We work closely with psychologists who are experienced in providing evidence-based psychological treatments, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and other therapeutic approaches. These treatments can help individuals understand and manage their thoughts, behaviours and emotions to improve their mental health and overall well-being.

When necessary, medication can be an effective part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Our psychiatrists are experienced in prescribing and managing medications for a variety of mental health conditions. We closely monitor our clients to ensure the effectiveness of the medication and to manage any potential side effects.

With your consent, we can work closely with other providers, schools, employers and HR departments to ensure a comprehensive and collaborative approach to your mental health care. This allows us to provide the most effective treatment and support, tailored to your unique circumstances and needs. We respect your privacy and confidentiality, and any collaboration with other parties will always be done with your knowledge and consent.

Some degree of memory changes can be a part of the normal ageing process. For instance, you might occasionally forget a person’s name but remember it later, or you might misplace everyday items like keys or glasses. These instances, while frustrating, are typically not cause for concern. However, significant memory loss, confusion or difficulties with thinking and problem-solving are not typical of ageing and could be signs of a more serious condition such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Symptoms to watch out for include consistently forgetting recent events or conversations, getting lost in familiar places, having trouble finding the right words or showing poor judgement in decision-making.

If you are noticing these or any other changes in your memory or thinking skills, it is important to discuss these concerns with a healthcare professional. They can conduct more thorough assessments to determine if these changes are signs of a cognitive disorder.

As we age, we may encounter new mental health challenges, including common issues such as depression, anxiety and cognitive disorders like dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Loneliness and grief can also significantly impact mental health in older adults.

Regular mental health check-ups are crucial, just like regular physical health check-ups. If you are feeling persistently down or anxious, or notice changes in your memory or thinking skills, it is important to seek help.

Remember, there is no age limit to improving mental health.

It is commendable that you are looking out for your elderly parent’s mental health. Encourage them to communicate openly—let them know it is okay to talk about their feelings and concerns—and be there for them emotionally—listen to their concerns, validate their feelings and reassure them that it is okay to seek help if needed. If their mental health issues persist or worsen, consider reaching out to a mental health professional who can provide a proper assessment and guide you on the next steps for treatment.

It can also be helpful to educate yourself on the mental health issues commonly faced by older adults so you can better understand what your parent is going through. Remember, your concern and support can make a significant difference in their journey towards better mental health.

Yes, when monitored by a healthcare professional, medications can be a safe and effective part of mental health treatment. However, it is important to note that seniors often have specific considerations when it comes to medication.

Older adults may be on multiple types of medications for various health conditions, and these can interact with each other in complex ways. These interactions can sometimes alter the effectiveness of the medications or cause side effects. Additionally, age-related changes in the body can affect how it processes medications, potentially leading to different dosing requirements.

Therefore, it is extremely important to discuss any new medications with a healthcare provider who is aware of all the other medications and supplements your loved one is taking. This can help prevent harmful drug interactions and ensure the safest, most effective treatment plan.

You are doing the right thing by seeking information and being proactive about your loved one’s health. Always feel free to ask questions and voice any concerns to your healthcare provider.