According to psychiatrist Dr Paramveer Singh, neglecting mental health can have a devastating consequence, especially for senior citizens, and they should immediately seek professional help.
Mental health problems are common across age demographics, from teenagers and young adults to middle-aged and senior citizens. Dealing with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, etc., requires professional help. In senior citizens, cognitive decline and other age-related issues further complicate mental health problems.
Dr Paramveer Singh, a physiatrist at Antara Senior Care, says, “In seniors, the most common mental illnesses are depression, anxiety disorders, and cognitive decline. Depression often arises due to social isolation, chronic illness, or the loss of loved ones, with symptoms like persistent sadness and fatigue.”
Singh says, “Anxiety, including anxiety and panic attacks, manifests as excessive worry and restlessness, requiring both medical and therapeutic care. Cognitive decline, which affects memory and behaviour, can involve conditions like mild cognitive impairment and dementia, requiring pharmacological and therapeutic interventions to improve quality of life.”
Seniors also face sleep disturbances, delirium, irritability, and mood swings. These symptoms often stem from physical health issues or the side effects of medications like antihypertensives and pain relievers. Grief over losing loved ones, and social isolation, can further worsen mental health. Early treatment can help manage these conditions effectively, he adds.
Common Battle
Each age group has specific mental health needs. For teenagers, it’s essential to build healthy habits by encouraging balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep, for which Singh suggests limiting social media use can help reduce anxiety and self-esteem issues. Open communication is key along with promoting social connections, yoga, or meditation, he says.
For middle-aged adults, balancing work and life is crucial. Staying active, seeking support from friends or mental health resources, and finding time for hobbies can help manage stress.
For seniors, Singh suggests that engaging the mind with puzzles, reading, and maintaining social connections are vital. He further recommends regular conversations with family and doctors about their feelings for support. Promoting a structured daily routine and fostering a sense of purpose through hobbies or volunteering can significantly enhance their well-being.
Solutions For Seniors
Many seniors experience anxiety about retirement due to financial issues and family needs. To alleviate this, it's crucial to focus on financial planning, creating a detailed retirement budget, having an emergency fund, understanding healthcare costs, and regularly scheduling medical check-ups. Open family discussions about financial and care expectations can clarify roles and responsibilities, making the transition smoother. This approach can help seniors manage their health and alleviate aging-related anxiety.
Singh says, “Seniors should prioritise their mental health by early recognising symptoms of depression and anxiety, engaging in community activities, using digital tools, and maintaining a balanced diet and exercise.” Regular health check-ups, counseling, and community programmes can help monitor chronic conditions. Mindfulness and new activities can help seniors adapt to life changes. He adds that “senior living communities offer social engagement, specialised care, and emotional support. By staying proactive and informed, they can improve their life quality.”
Some Common And Uncommon Symptoms
Seniors often experience depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, sleep disturbances, delirium, isolation, and mood swings. These symptoms can be influenced by social isolation, chronic illness, or excessive worry about health or family. Cognitive decline can range from forgetfulness to dementia, impacting memory and behaviour. Sleep issues and delirium are common due to medications or health conditions. Isolation can intensify feelings of loneliness, while less common symptoms include late-onset psychosis, mania, apathy, paranoia, and pseudodementia. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improving their mental health.
How Seriously Is Mental Health Taken In India?
Singh explains, “When it comes to mental illness in India, I’ve seen encouraging changes, though challenges remain. Awareness is growing; recent studies show that 92 per cent of people support mental health treatment, a significant increase from 54 per cent in 2018.”
He said many individuals fear judgment and social exclusion, which can prevent them from reaching out for help. These stigmas are caused by cultural barriers, misconceptions and supernatural beliefs.
Singh says, “Covid-19 has really put mental health on the map—boosting awareness and access to online therapy. Yet, we still have a long way to go. About 60-70 million people in India experience mental disorders and only 0.75 psychiatrists are available per 100,000 people—a critical issue. While acceptance is improving, we need to continue advocating for mental health education to help people feel safe in seeking the support they need.”