DEPRESSION in aged care residents is often dismissed as “just getting older”.
Yet around 45 per cent of people display symptoms of depression when first admitted to residential aged care according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.
“Depression and anxiety among older people can be easily missed,” said Bolton Clarke’s Corinna Borg who offers mental health support to aged care residents through the NewAccess program.
NewAccess is a free early intervention mental health program being offered to residents in residential aged care facilities in central and eastern Sydney who are experiencing the early signs of depression or anxiety.
“Symptoms that would cause concern in a younger person, such as insomnia or social withdrawal, may be disregarded in older people as ‘just getting older’,” said Mrs Borg.
“We know that depression can affect memory and concentration too, and people sometimes assume that problems with memory or concentration are due to age-related changes in thinking.”
The project is being delivered by aged care service provider Bolton Clarke and is funded by Central and Eastern Sydney Primary Health Network.
There are 150 residential aged care communities across the region, which stretches from Bondi to Sutherland and Strathfield and since the project’s launch earlier this year residents in 11 communities have already received help.
Developed by beyondblue, NewAccess provides support for people experiencing anxiety and/or depression due to issues including loneliness, grief or physical ill health, often at key transitional times such as the move into residential aged care.
Mrs Borg said simple changes could make a big difference to the mental health and overall wellbeing of aged care residents.
“It is vital that aged care residents have access to quality mental health support that is affordable and easy to access.
“Like many physical health problems, the sooner people seek treatment for their mental health issues the sooner they get back to feeling their best – happy, healthy and engaged with their families and community.”
NewAccess coaches provide six one-on-one sessions with each resident. The program is also available to families experiencing anxiety after their loved one enters residential care. It is also available to people working in the aged care industry.
LOOKING OUT FOR THE SIGNS
- New residents with symptoms of depression are twice as likely to have behaviours that affect their care needs.
- Family members can also experience anxiety and depression around the decision to move a loved one into residential care.
- Signs of anxiety and depression in older people can be masked by dementia. Symptoms often develop gradually and can significantly affect the person’s ability to successfully adapt to their new lifestyle.
- Symptoms of anxiety in older people can include increased heart rate, dizziness, withdrawal from or avoiding situations, muscle tension and pain.
- Symptoms of depression can include withdrawal from family and friends, loss or change of appetite and not enjoying regular activities.
To find out more about the NewAccess residential aged care project, phone 1800-010-630 or visit boltonclarke.com.au/newaccess-program