Mental Health Awareness Month was established in 1949 to increase awareness of the importance of mental health and wellness in Americans’ lives and to celebrate recovery from mental illness. May is the designated month to shine a light on these issues. As May draws to a close, it’s crucial to recognize that the conversation around mental well-being extends to seniors who are our family, friends and neighbors too.

The mental health of older adults can be influenced by a variety of factors, including physical health problems, chronic illnesses, pain, and disabilities. Additionally, seniors may be experiencing the death of loved ones – friends, family, spouses, and even pets. This can often be a reminder of one’s mortality, which can lead to depression and anxiety.

As we age, social interaction often declines due to retirement, loss of friends or family, or physical limitations. Then there are the stressful issues of finances, memory loss that affects all of us at some level as we age, changes in lifestyle, and the side effects of medications that can affect mood and cognition.

Despite these challenges, older adults often lack access to mental health services due to a deficiency of geriatric mental health specialists or practical issues such as transportation to/from appointments. And because many older adults grew up with a mindset of keeping your problems to yourself and “maintaining a stiff upper lip,” they often silently endure the mental challenges they face.

What can we do to help?

The good news is that there is plenty we can do to support our valued older adult friends, family members, and neighbors. Doing so involves a combination of practical assistance, emotional support and social engagement.

First, stay in touch with seniors regularly, whether through letters, phone calls, online via Facetime or Zoom, or in-person visits. This regular communication helps reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation. When you do connect with your friends or family members, encourage and invite them to participate in social activities, whether it’s joining clubs, attending community events, or engaging in group activities at senior centers. Social interaction is crucial for mental well-being. Our community in Monument, Jackson Creek Senior Living, as well as other local retirement communities, libraries, and senior centers, offers free educational talks, entertainment, support groups, and more. Take a senior friend or visit yourself, as these are low-pressure and fun ways to engage with the community and peers.

Additionally, consider offering transportation to help get your family member or friend away from home. You may also offer to help with tasks such as grocery shopping, household chores, or yard work, especially if the senior has physical limitations. Practical assistance can alleviate stress and promote a sense of well-being.

Importantly, it’s critical to be heard and validated. Being a supportive listener and validating the senior’s feelings and experiences, can make a world of difference. You can also encourage seniors to engage in regular physical activity, whether it’s walking, gardening, or partaking in age-appropriate exercise classes like Tai Chi. As it does for everyone, physical activity has numerous benefits for mental health. Along with exercise, encourage your senior friends or family to maintain healthy living habits, such as getting enough sleep and eating well.

Also, consider helping your senior friends and family to connect with local resources and support services. There is a wealth of valuable resources in the Tri-Lakes area – take advantage when you can.

Lastly, while it is commendable to take the time to support your senior family and friends in maintaining their mental health, remember to respect their autonomy and independence. Allow them to make decisions about their own life and health whenever possible. And have patience! Slowing down and enjoying the moment can be healthy for both your and the seniors’ well-being.

Elizabeth Girling is vice president of operations for WellAge Senior Living, which manages Jackson Creek Senior Living in Monument and other locations statewide. She has two decades of experience working with families and older adults.