The link between home care and mental health
For ageing adults, maintaining physical health is emphasised; doctors prescribe medications for illnesses, physical activity and good eating habits are encouraged and protective measures are put in place to help with limited mobility and fall prevention. In recent years, however, mental health is rightfully being recognised as just as important as physical health. According to statistics, approximately 1 in 4 older people live with common mental health conditions. Fortunately, these conditions are not an inevitable part of ageing – help is available.
In this blog post, we explore the link between home care and mental health. Read on to learn more about home care in Romford and the mental health benefits it can provide.
Mental health and ageing adults
As we age, it’s natural that social circles may become smaller and financial or physical limitations may prevent us from doing the things we once loved. This can lead to fewer interactions with people and less time spent pursuing activities that give life meaning and bring pleasure and joy.
The most common mental health condition among older people is depression, which affects 22% of men and 28% of women aged 65 or over. The second most common is anxiety. Loneliness also has a profound impact on mental health, increasing the risk of both dementia and depression.
To maintain a good quality of life, it’s just as important to maintain mental health as it is to maintain physical health. Sadly, older people have less access to mental health services and support compared to other age groups. This is due to a variety of factors such as the belief that a decline in mental health is an inevitable part of ageing, the negative stigma surrounding talking about mental health particularly for older males and the belief that talking therapies are not effective for older people or that they will not engage with the process.
The benefits of home care for mental health
Home care is designed to support a person’s independence and empower them to live a fulfilled and active life. It does this by providing personal care and practical assistance around the house that is tailored to their unique needs. In addition to these, home care also provides mental health benefits.
First of all, providing companionship is a big part of home care. Your dedicated carer is there to accompany you to events, participate in shared activities with you, or simply enjoy a friendly chat over a cup of tea. Consistent company helps to combat the devastating effects of loneliness by keeping isolation at bay.
Home care also promotes intellectual stimulation. As you and your carer engage in meaningful conversation, complete mentally stimulating activities such as puzzles or comment on a programme that you both enjoy watching together, you’ll help keep your brain sharp. As the saying goes, ‘use it or lose it’!
In addition, your carer is there to empower you to live as independently as possible. They do this by motivating you with daily tasks, supporting you as you cope with changing capabilities and providing an extra hand when necessary.
Finally, carers can pick up on early signs of declining mental health so that appropriate treatment can be put in place as soon as possible.
Get in touch
If you have any questions about our home care services or would like to learn more, we invite you to get in touch or call us on 0800 999 3447. Our expert staff would be more than happy to speak with you and help in any way we can.