Page 7 - 10-10-22

RURAL-URBAN RECORD, October 10, 2022 Page 7

Geriatric psychiatry provides Explore resources for caregivers
support through aging Caregivers are called on to step in for any number of rea-

sons. Some serve as companions to the elderly, while oth-
Geriatric psychiatrists are tuned into the unique needs of ers assist those with debilitating diseases like cancer. While
aging men and women. many caregivers are professionals hired for their services, a
Many positive changes come with aging. Financial in- good number of caregivers are informal - meaning they are
dependence, freedom to pursue hobbies and more time to family members or friends assisting loved ones.
spend with loved ones are some such benefits. Even though they are trying to help others, caregivers
But as men and women age, they also must give con- often must confront a form of stress known as caregiver
sideration to those changes few consider until they’re hap- burnout. The Cleveland Clinic states this stress is marked
pening. Retirement, loss of a spouse, distance from family, physical, emotional and mental exhaustion that occurs in
downsizing, and fears of illness must be given their due caregivers. This burnout may lead to fatigue, anxiety and
attention so aging adults can get the assistance they need depression.
when they need it. Geriatric psychiatrists can fill the gaps While there may not be a way to completely eliminate all
where others cannot. caregiving stress, there are some ways to prevent burnout.
The American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry de- Utilizing various resources can be a start. Here’s a look at
fines the profession as a Doctor of Medicine or Doctor of some available caregiver resources.
Osteopathy with special training in the diagnosis and treat- • Trusted friend: Find someone you trust with whom you
ment of mental disorders that may occur in older adults. can discuss your feelings, including any frustration you may
These disorders may include, but are not limited to, demen- feel. This can be a neighbor or a coworker with whom you
feel comfortable sharing personal details.
tia, depression, anxiety, late life addiction disorders, and • Support groups: Support groups can provide safe spac-
schizophrenia. Although geriatric psychiatrists can treat es to vent with others who are in the same boat. Houses
these and more, they also may help adults navigate emotion- of worship may host support groups, or you can find out NOW BUYING
al, physical and social needs that come with getting older. about meetings through hospitals or from personal doctors.
The AAGP estimates that the rate of mental illness among The National Family Caregiver Support Program was estab- • Pre 1964 Silver Coins
older adults will double over the next 10 years from what it lished in 2000 and provides grants to states and territories
was in 2000. Many of the people treated will need assistance to fund a range of support that assists family and informal • Gold nearing all-time highs
with symptoms of dementia. The organization Alzheimer’s caregivers to care for their loved ones at home for as long as • Sterling Silver
Disease International indicates there are more than 9.9 mil- possible. Other groups include Caregiver Action Network
lion new cases of dementia each year worldwide. and Family Caregiver Alliance. • Silverware
Geriatric psychiatrists can provide specialized care to • Respite care services: Respite care services provide
this unique demographic. Geriatric psychiatrists often focus temporary breaks for caregivers by enabling the sick, elder-
on prevention, evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of men- ly or injured to stay in care facilities for anywhere from a
tal and emotional disorders in the elderly, says the American couple of hours to a few days. Some respite care services Gift Certificates Available
Psychiatric Association, an advocate for improvement of will provide short-term, in-home care as well. “Now Offering 12 months Interest Free”
psychiatric care for elderly patients. Geriatric psychiatrists • Professional therapist: Many therapists are trained to
understand how medication dosage and therapy treatments counsel individuals who have particular issues. Some may GOLD
may need to be customized as one ages. These psychiatrics specialize in grief or even caregiver needs. Utilize their ser-
also can consult with experts in neurology and primary care vices if speaking with a confidante is not enough. is at an all time high!
physicians when there are symptoms across various fields, Caregivers often put the needs of others before their
which may be the case when patients are experiencing mem- own. But they may need a little help along the way, which is
where caregiver resources can come into play.
ory impairment, anxiety and depression. 705 Chestnut Commons Dr., Elyria
Geriatric psychiatrists suggest speaking with mental (440) 322-0019
health professionals early on if symptoms of low mood, www.elyriajewelers.com
restlessness, insomnia, and other hallmarks of potential
mental dysfunction are present in elderly patients. This way Hours: Tues. 9:30-7 • Wed./Thurs./Fri. 9:30-5 • Sat. 9:30-3:30
doctors can step in early and improve their quality of life.

Live the possibilities

Want to live where you can make friends, eat

well and kick back with confidence and
security? Come and see our our premier

amenities, floor plans and services.

The first 10 residents to make a deposit on an
440-366-8980
apartment home will receive FREE packing 1210 South Abbe Road / Elyria, OH 44035

and moving services! AbbeWoodRetirement.com 148069

R EDI S C O VER T HE A B B E W O O D R E T I R E M EN T C EN T ER