There are millions of senior citizens living in America today. While the idea that there is a robust community of like-minded people out there may seem comforting, the reality is that many seniors feel isolated and alone. House Calls: The Future of Senior Care
The aging process can be a difficult and scary time of life, and oftentimes, symptoms of depression can begin to form undetected by family and friends.
Health is of utmost importance. Especially as we grow older, our bodies may require extra care and attention.

Aging Alone – How It Can Hurt

As we age, many of us experience mental, physical, and social changes. Loss can sometimes take its toll on a person – whether it’s a loss of mobility or loss of a loved one. Depression can develop at any stage of life, but the aging population is in a unique position when it comes to this disease of the mind.

1. Depression Can Affect Your Mood

It may sound obvious, but it’s worth stating – depression affects the way you feel and behave. Family members may notice a change in you – irritability, lack of interest in activities, melancholia – and you may feel an increased apathy toward hobbies you once enjoyed.

2. Depression Can Take Its Toll on Your Physical Health

While most people think of depression as a mood-altering condition, what lies beyond a change in mood are health problems that can emerge from this condition. While some people with depression develop mysterious aches and pains that do not improve with treatment, others can also develop skin problems, stomach problems, and even heart problems.
Your body responds to how healthy you are mentally – as depression grows worse, your body’s physical state can deteriorate.

3. You Feel Tired All the Time

One of the most debilitating and common aspects of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders that can occur as a senior is an increase in fatigue. While it’s important to rule out any medical conditions that can cause fatigue, if depression is present, one can feel so tired that they are unable to get out of bed.
It’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Millions of people struggle with depression and anxiety, and as a senior, it may feel like you are the only one dealing with these changes in your mind and body. Coping with depression isn’t something that you should do alone – a professional psychotherapist has the tools to help you understand what is happening and how to move forward and heal.

Is Having Someone to Talk to Important?

A feeling of isolation is one of the leading complaints from the aging population. Depression only exacerbates this feeling, and makes one feel as though no one can empathize with you. Many times, senior citizens fear speaking to a professional about their mental health because they do not want to be labeled “crazy.” In fact, 63% of seniors do not receive mental health services they need.
While many people have friends and family they can confide in, oftentimes a trained professional with a different perspective — one who will not judge you based on past experiences and relationships — is the one best suited to lend an ear. They are trained to be able to give you the tools to deal with any stressors that life can throw your way.

Why Should a Personal Consultant Visit My Home?

There are plenty of options for finding and meeting a mental health professional to address your specific needs. There are clinics, one-on-one meetings in an office, and even group meetings. One option that you may have yet to consider is a house call.
Here are some of the aspects that make house calls such a viable option for mental health home care:

• No Traveling Required: Having mobility issues can make seeking help seem like just another chore. Having someone come to your home to lend an ear takes the difficulty of travel out of the equation.
• A Familiar Setting: You have the assurance that you will be able to talk in the comfort and privacy of your own home.
• Someone to Talk to on Your Time: Appointments can be scheduled during times most convenient to you.

Best of all – there’s no waiting room!

Senior Wellness Starts at Home

Admitting that you may need help is one of the biggest steps a person can take. Once you and your loved ones have identified the problems impacting your quality of life, it may be intimidating to seek help in a setting that is unfamiliar and new to you.
That’s why having a personal consultant in your home is such a revolutionary option.