In this episode of the PTSD Bytes podcast, host Dr. Colleen Becket-Davenport talks about older adults (age 65 and over) utilizing psychological well being apps with Dr. Christine Gould, medical psychologist on the Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center at VA Palo Alto Health Care System.

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Mental well being issues in older adults

Older adults (age 65+) are likely to expertise decrease charges of psychological well being issues, similar to PTSD or despair. However, as we age, psychological well being issues might look totally different from these of youthful adults. Even if we should not have all of the signs of PTSD or despair, we might have some signs that intervene with our high quality of life.

For instance, older adults might not report emotions of being on excessive alert or feeling unhappy, however do report issues with sleep, low urge for food, and points with reminiscence or focus. Chronic medical situations and adjustments in our our bodies as we age may have an effect on what PTSD or despair can appear to be, or what we fear about.

The charges of loss of life by suicide are highest amongst older white males. This could be because of psychological well being issues, but in addition power ache, issues with sleep and different points. It’s essential for all of us to concentrate to psychological well being issues in older adults so we might assist detect and stop suicide.

Accessing psychological well being remedy

Older adults could also be much less more likely to search psychological well being providers and extra more likely to share psychological well being issues with their major care supplier. This might result in being prescribed drugs as a substitute of being referred to a therapist or different psychological well being skilled. Mobility difficulties, transportation points and residing in rural areas may restrict entry to clinic appointments.

Technology and psychological well being

Technology may also help shut the gaps in entry to psychological well being providers for older adults. Telehealth appointments, smartphone apps, tablets and computer systems with webcams can allow older adults to obtain psychological well being providers from the consolation of dwelling.

Gould ceaselessly recommends two free VA cell apps to older adults. Mindfulness Coach features a coaching program that walks you thru studying about mindfulness via readings and practising workout routines. PTSD Coach can be utilized by older adults with or with out PTSD—the app suggests instruments to deal with stress that’s bothering you proper now, even in case you don’t have a PTSD prognosis.

Helpful sources

If you’re uncomfortable utilizing new know-how, take into consideration what issues most to you after which work via any boundaries. For instance, do you need to use apps to remain related with household? Or do you need to learn to use your pc to attend telehealth appointments?

Remember that you just’ve efficiently realized new applied sciences all through your life, similar to ATMs or cordless telephones, and may study extra. Technology these days tends to be extra forgiving than it was and has easy-to-use undo features like a again arrow. A buddy or member of the family can present help, and handouts and easy written directions can even assist.

For any older grownup who would really like assist with know-how, there are various obtainable sources. VA has some simple guides to assist individuals study in regards to the fundamentals of smartphones or tablets, and step-by-step guides for Mindfulness Coach and PTSD Coach.

There are additionally videos that reveal find out how to use the totally different VA psychological well being apps. Senior facilities and libraries might supply tech help drop-in hours or lessons. And a program referred to as Help at Hand has free movies to assist individuals study digital literacy, similar to find out how to keep secure on-line, and find out how to create and handle passwords.

With help and sources, you’ll be able to study to make use of new know-how to assist your psychological well being at any age.

Additional hyperlinks

If you’re a Veteran who’s experiencing a disaster or supporting a liked one who’s, dial 988 then press 1 for rapid help, or chat on-line at VeteransCrisisLine.net/chat.