As you grow older, you may have new
mental health needs. Loss of a spouse or loved one, declining income and deteriorating
physical health often bring about severe depression or impair your ability to cope with
everyday life.
Major disorders such as Alzheimer's Disease, strokes and other heart disorders, and
Parkinson's Disease can have debilitating effects on older people. Medications prescribed
for some chronic conditions may impair mental functioning.
Often
seniors and their families may be reluctant to seek mental health treatment, or they may
be at a loss to know where and how services are provided. Private and publicly funded
mental health services for seniors range all the way from peer counseling and support
groups to hospitalization. In addition, religious organizations and other community
agencies often sponsor programs for seniors.
Most counties in California provide mental health services for indigent seniors with
serious mental disorders. To find out what services are available, call the offices of
your county's Department of Mental Health. Local offices of the Area Agency on Aging
should be able to give you information on the types of non-public services that are
available in your community. The Mental Health Association in your
area should also be able to assist you in finding the services that are appropriate
for your needs.
