If you’re helping an older loved one who has a mental illness, you may find that daily tasks they used to manage independently, like taking medications, going to appointments or spending time with friends, starts to be hard for them. They may need your support.
Whether your loved one has depression, a substance use disorder or another mental illness, it can be challenging to know what to do, how you can support them and how you can keep yourself healthy. With this guide, you can help them feel safer, more independent and more emotionally secure.
1. Organize medical information so you can easily access it
- Keep a medical folder: Include copies of medical records, diagnoses (including any mental illnesses), medications, allergies and health care provider contact information.
- Make copies: Having both paper and digital copies helps make sure you have the right information when speaking with doctors or mental health professionals.
- Use a tracking system: A digital health app or spreadsheet can track doctor visits, prescriptions and symptoms.
- Bring an updated medication list: Having this list with you at every appointment can help avoid missing a side effect or a medication interaction.
- Connect with a care coordinator: If your loved one sees multiple doctors, this type of provider can help manage their treatments.
2. Establish and maintain a daily routine
"Helping your loved one develop a consistent routine is the foundation that will set them and you up for success. It helps in setting a medication regimen, building exercise and social activities into a schedule and tracking changes to their daily habits,” said Anna Duffey, a licensed social worker with Banner Health.
- Set a schedule: Help your loved one plan a daily routine that includes mealtimes, medication times, exercise and social activities.
- Share a calendar: A digital or paper calendar you both use can help keep track of appointments and reminders.
- Build in physical activity: "Check your nearby senior center for classes or activities that can help your loved one stay active and meet friends. Many senior centers offer a wide variety of classes. If they can sign up for a class with a friend, even better. It grows their social network, introduces new activities and gets them out of the house." Duffey said.
- Get some sunshine: A daily walk in the sunshine can boost mood and lower depression. Help your loved one get out daily for a short walk and maybe even connect them with the neighborhood dog walkers to make it part of their routine,” Duffey said.
3. Manage medications and reduce risks
Older adults with mental health conditions may have trouble remembering if they’ve taken their medications. Missing doses or taking extra by mistake can cause serious health issues.
- Consider new services: "Many pharmacies offer a free service that can sort your medications by date and time into convenient, easy-to-open packets,” Duffey said.
- Sort medications: If using a service isn’t an option for you, use a medication box to help organize and assist your loved one with managing their medications. “Some specialized medication boxes will even lock, sound reminders at medication times and only unlock the dose that is needed,” Duffey said.
- Set reminders: Use a phone or smart device to let you and your loved one know when it’s time for medications.
- Keep a medication log: Track each dose and note any side effects so you can discuss them with health care providers.
4. Recognize and track mental health symptoms
Changes may happen slowly. Keeping a record of symptoms can help you spot worrisome patterns early.
- Watch for changes: Look for shifts in memory, mood or behavior — such as withdrawal, confusion or agitation — that could be signs of depression or other mental illness.
- Keep notes: Use a journal or note app to record any changes in sleep, eating, speech, hygiene, household tasks or thinking. “Changes in daily habits that last more than a couple of days could be signs of something that requires extra attention and assistance,” Duffy said. Physical problems such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) could alter mental status without causing physical symptoms.
- Be aware of differences in older adults: Depression and anxiety can look different in seniors than in younger adults. Fatigue, loss of appetite or irritability may be signs of a mental health condition.
5. Prevent isolation and encourage social connection
Social withdrawal is common in seniors with mental illness and loneliness and depression can make their symptoms worse.
It can help to:
- Keep in touch: Arrange regular phone calls, video chats or visits to help your loved one feel connected.
- Involve family members: Share stories, hobbies and meals to build a strong support network.
- Attend community events: Help your loved one join local groups or clubs so they have a bigger social network and feel less isolated.
6. Support emotional and behavioral health
- Listen without judgment: Create a safe space for your loved one to talk about their feelings.
- Encourage relaxation: Try to involve your loved one in deep breathing, meditation or listening to calming music.
- Seek professional help: If you notice persistent sadness or signs of depression or anxiety, reach out to mental health services. Cognitive behavioral therapies and guidance from mental health professionals can help. If your loved one talks about hopelessness or suicide, get help immediately.
7. Know when additional support is needed
If mental health conditions get worse, your loved one may need more hands-on care:
- Identify warning signs: If your loved one is confused, distressed, agitated or having memory issues, or they start missing medications and appointments, they may need extra support.
- Explore care options: In-home caregiver services, adult day programs, respite care or assisted living can provide additional help. It may help to start with short-term in-home care before considering long-term options. It’s a good idea to research what’s available and affordable in your area before your loved one needs extra help.
- Keep communication open: If your loved one resists support, have honest and patient conversations to understand their needs and concerns.
The bottom line
Caring for an older adult with mental illness involves a lot of challenges, from keeping their medical records organized to making sure they follow daily routines to supporting their social connections. By following these steps, you can help improve your loved one’s physical and mental health and quality of life.
If you need more advice and guidance to help care for a senior with mental illness, reach out to your loved one’s health care provider or an expert at Banner Health.
