When should an older loved one seek inpatient behavioral health care?

Q: When should an older loved one seek inpatient behavioral health care?

A: Older family members should have a face-to-face assessment with their primary care doctor to determine their mental health status. While many seniors can be treated in an outpatient setting, admission to an inpatient facility is the best option for those who are severely depressed, have suicidal thoughts, hallucinations, confusion, severe memory loss, and/or severe anxiety. Sometimes, those suffering from acute psychiatric disorders cannot live independently, or may even pose a danger to themselves or others.

Inpatient geriatric behavioral health units treat both the emotional and physical needs of older patients, as well as help them and their families cope with the challenges of aging. Many programs help patients and loved ones work through short-term crises, manage mental illness, and resume their lives.

A team of behavioral health professionals provides round-the-clock care in a safe, caring, and supportive environment. Inpatient care is a good option for medically compromised patients who may have problems with diabetes, Parkinson's disease, or issues following a cardiac event or stroke.

When looking for appropriate care for your older loved one, seek a program that specializes in geriatrics and offers one-on-one counseling and medical care with the goal of successful independent living. Advances in care may make it possible for seniors to overcome or better manage issues such as depression, anxiety, and symptoms of dementia. The goal is to return to the optimum level of health.