5 mental illnesses that affect the elderly the most

In addition to being more likely to develop physical illnesses, such as diabetes, cataracts, high blood pressure and cardiovascular problems, the elderly are also more likely to be affected by psychological disorders.

According to Ana Cristina Oliveira, psychologist, lecturer and professor of Psychology at FAEP, the most common mental disorders in old age are depression, anxiety disorder, late-onset schizophrenia, dementia and bipolar affective disorder.

symptoms of disorders

Below, Ana Cristina Oliveira lists the symptoms of the most common disorders in the elderly:

• Depression: affective disorder whose main symptoms are lack of interest in life in general, lack of pleasure, low self-esteem, discouragement and sadness for no reason;
• Anxiety disorder: it has as symptoms disproportionate stress to the impact of the event, restlessness, inability to overcome a concern, shortness of breath, muscle pain, tachycardia and palpitations;
• Late schizophrenia: the disorder that affects the ability to think, feel and behave clearly has as symptoms episodes of hallucination, fantasy delusions, social isolation, agitation and abnormal movements;
• Insanity: characterized as a decline in mental abilities, symptoms include memory loss, problems using language, disorientation, personality changes, and disruptive and inappropriate behavior;
• Bipolar affective disorder: characterized by mood swings, ranging from episodes of euphoria to depression. Symptoms of bipolar include irritability, forgetfulness, compulsive talking, and excessive guilt.

Main causes of disorders

There can be several reasons that lead to the development of the aforementioned disorders, and each one of them presents specific issues. However, Filipe Colombini, psychologist and CEO of Equipe At, comments that, in general, the main reasons are:

• Low economic level;
• Isolation and loss of social role;
• Lack of support, reception and support network;
• Decreased cognitive functioning;
• Avoidance of physical activities;
• Proximity to death itself;
• Increase in physical and disabling illnesses;
• Loss of autonomy.

Forms of diagnoses

The investigation of most mental disorders is performed clinically, that is, through the description of signs and symptoms. “These diseases are diagnosed by qualified professionals specialized in elderlywhich use clinical assessment, a battery of clinical tests and psychological and neuropsychological instruments for every need”, explains Filipe Colombini.

Indicated treatments

Although none of the diseases mentioned have a cure, they all have different forms of treatment. Filipe Colombini mentions that the use of medication, psychological and psychiatric follow-up, as well as neuropsychological and speech therapy rehabilitation, are methods that help in the improvement of the patient.

Psychologist Ana Cristina Oliveira adds that it is also important for the treatment that the old man practice activities that enable an active life, especially in the company of other seniors.

Benefits of treatments

In addition to reducing disease symptoms, treatments also provide other benefits to patients’ lives. “With the enriched environment due to the treatments, the elderly gradually show an improvement in mental health and, depending on the case, they also start to feel inserted and validated in the social space”, details Filipe Colombini.

Importance of the support network

One of the most important points in relation to mental illness in the elderly is the support network. “The role of the family or close people is extremely relevant, both to identify any symptoms, such as mood swings, lack of interest in day-to-day activities or forgetfulness, and to help with the treatment. Having physical, emotional and social support can change everything”, evaluates Ana Cristina Oliveira.

forms of prevention

Some simple everyday habits are essential to prevent the aforementioned diseases. “Thinking about the quality of life of the elderly, it is very important that they remain active, have their interests and social spaces preserved, maintain a healthy diet and practice physical activities”, declares Ana Cristina Oliveira.

The psychologist also comments that a healthy and balanced family relationship is essential for the prevention of any mental illness, as well as for the general well-being of the elderly.