• Home
  • Who we help
  • Seniors

Seniors

Promoting mental wellness and acknowledging the unique challenges that come with ageing.

Addressing mental health in seniors is an important area of concern as our population continues to age

Mental health is equally crucial later in life

Depression is a significant problem among the elderly.1

Dementia is on the rise

According to a 2015 study by the Institute of Mental Health, about 1 in 10 people aged 60 and above in Singapore has dementia.2

Early care makes a difference

Early intervention and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis for most mental health conditions, even in older age.

Negative perceptions are barriers

Mental health issues are often overlooked and untreated due to a combination of stigma and the misconception that they are a normal part of ageing.

Understanding common

cloud

Health issues
Health problems that come with age can cause worry and stress.

Loss of independence
Changes in physical health or cognitive abilities can lead to a loss of independence, which can be difficult to accept.

Financial stress
Living on a fixed income or facing unexpected medical expenses can cause financial stress.

Loneliness and isolation
Seniors may experience loneliness and isolation due to the loss of a spouse or friends, or because they are unable to get out and about as easily.

Caring for a spouse
Being a caregiver for a spouse with health issues can be emotionally and physically draining.

End-of-Life concerns
Thoughts and fears about death and dying can cause distress.

Anxiety Disorders

Beyond the scope of ordinary nervousness, anxiety disorders in older adults can become overwhelming, disrupting daily routines, relationships and overall quality of life.

COMMON SYMPTOMS

  • Persistent, excessive worry
  • Feelings of restlessness or being on edge
  • Increased heart rate
Depression

This mental health condition extends beyond typical mood swings and can greatly affect an older adult’s capacity to navigate daily life. While it’s not a standard part of ageing, depression is prevalent among seniors.

COMMON SYMPTOMS

  • Persistent feelings of sadness
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Difficulties functioning daily
Dementia, including Alzheimer’s Disease

Dementia is used generally to describe a life-altering decline in mental ability. These conditions are progressive brain disorders that impair a person’s memory, thinking skills and ability to perform simple daily tasks. Over time, these cognitive changes can significantly impact a person’s independence and quality of life.

COMMON SYMPTOMS

  • Memory loss, particularly noticing trouble with remembering recently learned information
  • Decline in cognitive abilities, such as difficulty concentrating, planning, or making decisions
  • Communication difficulties, including trouble finding the right words or following conversations
Adjustment Disorders

These are stress-related conditions that can develop in older adults following a significant life change or stressful event. In the elderly, these significant life changes could include retirement, the loss of a loved one, a serious health diagnosis or moving to a new living environment.

COMMON SYMPTOMS

  • Persistent, excessive worry or anxiety
  • Feelings of being overwhelmed or unable to cope
  • Difficulty focusing or remembering things
  • Changes in sleep patterns or appetite
Grief

As individuals age, they often encounter various losses, such as the death of loved ones, declining health, retirement or job loss, and loss of independence. These losses can lead to a profound sense of grief.

COMMON SYMPTOMS

  • Intense sorrow
  • Preoccupation with the loss
  • Difficulty accepting the loss
  • Feeling of emptiness or meaninglessness

How we can help

We are committed to supporting your mental health journey with high-quality, personalised mental health care—no matter your age or experiences.

Personalised treatment

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.

Proper assessment and diagnosis

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.

Psychological treatment

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.

Medication management

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.

Collaborative care

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.

Shaping a healthier future

Regular mental health screenings, maintaining social connections, staying physically active and seeking professional help are all effective strategies for promoting better mental well-being, especially as one ages.

In addition, medication and psychological therapy or a combination of both can be beneficial in managing symptoms, facilitating daily activities and addressing the unique challenges that come with ageing. These treatments can significantly improve the quality of life and should be considered as part of a comprehensive approach to mental health care.

cloud
hand background

Reach out towards recovery

Community support and resources

Mental health issues are more common than we think—there is nothing to be ashamed of. There are always resources available including counselling services and support groups. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Confidentiality

We respect your privacy—any discussions you have with us are kept strictly confidential.

Holistic well-being

Your mental health matters just as much as your physical health. Taking care of your mind is a crucial part of your overall well-being.

Frequently asked questions

I am 68 years old and I have been having memory problems. Is this just normal ageing or should I be concerned?

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.

What mental health issues should I be aware of as a senior?

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.

I think my elderly parent needs help with their mental health. How can I support them?

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.

Are mental health medications safe for seniors?

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.

REFERENCES