6 Budget-Friendly Mental Healthcare Services for Seniors

Mental health is an essential part of overall health that should be cultivated and supported throughout life. However, getting older can present new challenges, so a recommitment to mental health in your golden years is essential. Transitioning to a new life phase can bring anxiety, uneasiness, and sadness. You’re not alone if you or a loved one struggles to adjust to retirement.

There are so many resources out there to help older folks boost their mental wellness and find joy in their retirement years, no matter what difficulties they may be facing. Here is a look at six easy and budget-friendly resources that older adults can access when they need extra mental health support.

1. National Council on Aging

Since its founding in 1950, the National Council on Aging has played an active role in the lives of seniors by advocating for them politically, socially, and interpersonally. Its goal is to be an ally to every senior, no matter what their circumstances might be.

The NCOA provides valuable content for older adults, including healthcare advice, money help, injury prevention, and more. Additionally, it has plenty of resources for caregivers, family members of older people, and professionals with older clients.

2. Administration on Aging

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services created the Administration on Aging to enforce the Older Americans Act, passed in 1965.

Through this act, the AoA can provide valuable services to retired folks, including help with independent living, nutrition programs, safeguards against elder abuse, and more. By contacting the AoA office, you can ask questions about its resources and find out how to access them.

3. Alzheimers.gov

Alzheimer’s disease can significantly affect the individual experiencing it and their family, friends, and caregivers. If you want to learn more about Alzheimer’s symptoms and risk factors or need resources to make life with Alzheimer’s more manageable, you can find all this at Alzheimers.gov.

Additionally, Alzheimers.gov makes it easy to sign up for a clinical trial near you. If you or a loved one is currently experiencing Alzheimer’s or dementia, you could be a part of the effort to find better treatments for this condition.

4. American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry

Are you interested in connecting with a mental health professional to discuss your struggles and receive the support you need? You can connect with a psychiatrist near you who specializes in geriatric care by visiting the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry website.

Depending on the nature of your mental health, your geriatric psychiatrist can give informed opinions on treatment options and lifestyle changes that could drastically improve your day-to-day life.

5. engAGED

engAGED: The National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults encourages social participation and engagement among older folks, people with disabilities, and caregivers.

One of the primary causes of poor mental health for seniors is loneliness and social isolation, which are unfortunately common among older people. Funded by the Administration on Aging, engAGED helps to provide older adults with the resources and support they need to stay connected and enjoy their golden years.

6. AmeriCorps Seniors

Cultivating an active social life is a great way to improve your mental health and sense of belonging as a senior. However, getting involved in your community can be even more meaningful.

AmeriCorps Seniors gives adults over 55 the opportunity to give back, whether tutoring children, supporting families affected by disaster, or delivering essentials to disabled neighbors.

The strong sense of purpose these activities give seniors can make a huge difference in their mental health and happiness.

Improving Mental Health for Older Adults, One Step at a Time

As you can see, there are many ways for retired people to support their mental health while creating a lifestyle they love. If you or your loved one struggles with anxiety, depression, or isolation in retirement, don’t hesitate to contact these resources. This can be a fulfilling time of life as long as you have the support you need to thrive.