Supportive Elder Care for Mental Illness in Burlington, VT and the Surrounding Area

We all know seniors are at-risk for many different facets of life. Whether it’s safety, disease, property crime, germs, phone scams – we should look out for the elderly loved ones in our lives. Mental illness is another area that needs our attention. Here in Burlington, VT and the surrounding area, we know that seniors can manage the difficulties of mental illness in with the right caregivers. Visiting Angels of Vermont is proud to support senior citizens with elder care that can help them cope with mental illness at any age.

Causes of Mental Illness

It can be hard for anyone to ask for help, especially older adults who are used to taking care of themselves. In their wise and learned years, many don’t want to admit they might be struggling with a mental problem. Besides, some don’t even realize it’s a hindrance and believe it to be a symptom attributed to another health condition or naturally growing old. Fortunately, mental illness can be treated with the right physician and caregivers at one’s side. You can detect it better by looking for warning signs:

• Poor health
• Early stages of a long-term physical disability
• Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease
• Death of spouse, child, or close loved one
• Unexpected life change, such as moving into a Vermont elder care facility
• Unanticipated response to a new medication
• Poor diet or reduced access to proper food
• Alcohol or some other type of drug abuse

What You Might Notice

Anytime someone is alone, it can leave them at risk of becoming depressed. Short-term depression doesn’t mean a certainty of mental illness in elder care, but you can look for clues should it persist. It could be that he or she has less zest or vigor. You might notice a reduced appetite or even loss of weight. You could find that socially; your loved one has less interest in other people, hobbies, or their overall surroundings. They may even speak disappointment in words or deed by withdrawing.

Keep a close eye on your loved one, especially during the isolated world that the pandemic has brought upon us. You might consider utilizing a caregiver from Visiting Angels of Vermont. Our team is specially trained to help people cope through illnesses of all kinds, and we can connect you with professionals who know how to deal with mental illness in elder care specifically. We serve South Burlington and many of the great surrounding cities of St. George, Williston, Shelburne, Charlotte, Colchester, Jericho and all of Chittenden County. Contact us at 802-862-8777.