Spotting Anxiety and Depression in Seniors with Memory Disorders

Changes in cognition and physical form are common in the aging population due to a variety of health and life issues. Some people may have trouble remembering things like names, dates, or even the exact location of their spectacles. As a result of this disorientation and amnesia regarding mundane activities, seniors may experience feelings of despair, sadness, and helplessness.

About Depression in Seniors in Lincoln, NE

Worryingly, these memory lapses could be signs of Alzheimer's disease or dementia, two serious forms of memory loss. Even the most amiable older adults can have violent or verbal outbursts, and even the most stony people can experience sadness or tears.

It is critical to identify the early warning signals of anxiety in seniors who suffer from memory impairments. To help you locate the best care for your elderly loved one, Visiting Angels of Lincoln is at your service to provide a variety of non-medical services.

Reliable Caregivers

We understand that hearing about others' positive experiences can guide you in choosing a home care service. That's why we invite you to read our many reviews, including this one from Google:

"I would recommend Visiting Angels to anyone. The leadership of Visiting Angels was very compassionate and they did an excellent job."

About Spotting Anxiety and Depression in Seniors with Memory Disorders

Even though your loved one enjoys good days most of the time, they may experience extreme emotions, tension, or overwhelm on rare occasions if they suffer from mild anxiety or depression. It is essential to consult with them and their physician if you observe depressive or anxious symptoms that persist for more than a few weeks.

Symptoms of depression and anxiety include:

• Avoiding social activities and self-isolation
• Anxiety attacks that cause difficulty breathing, racing heartbeat, sweating, or nausea
• Sleep disturbances (sleeping too much or too little)
• Repeated hand wringing, tapping, or picking at skin or nails
• Difficulty maintaining attention or focus
• Feelings of emptiness, guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness
• Distress over changes in routine
• Loss of interest in favorite activities or socializing
• Paranoia, irritability, or restlessness

Tips for Dealing With Depression and Anxiety in Seniors

It can be difficult to cope when a loved one experiences memory loss or changes in their emotional state. You can have trouble communicating and feel sorrow for the person you knew before. If they're upset and can't put words to it, it's natural to feel frustrated.

How to Cope With Anxiety and Depression

• Speak to them in a calm tone.
• Request (don’t demand) that they take medication or complete tasks to help them feel more in control.
• Avoid correcting or reasoning with them.
• Utilize respite care to take breaks and reset your own mood.
• Offer a few choices at a time to avoid overwhelming them.
• Reassure them that they are safe.
• Don’t take mean comments personally.

Remember that outbursts of anger or yelling are due to changes in their memory or emotional health.

Strong Client-Caregiver Relationships

Building a trusting relationship between clients and caregivers is crucial for home care services to work. Because of this, clients will be able to receive more individualized care in the comfort of their own homes.

Building Trust

Caregiver applicants undergo a comprehensive hiring process that evaluates their interpersonal skills and professional competence. After they have completed comprehensive training to achieve our high care standards, caregiver matches are based on client needs and personality traits.

Getting Started With In-Home Care in Lincoln, NE

When you are looking into Lincoln senior home care choices, we are here to help. Contact a care coordinator by calling (402) 735-0999 or by completing our online form. We'll then schedule a no-cost in-home consultation for you and your loved one to discuss your requirements in detail to ensure our services fit your needs. Our team will create a unique plan for home care based on your specific needs and then match you with a caregiver.