Senior Solutions ... Check Your Mood

October 02, 2017

By Erika Nail/Senior Life Solutions Program Director

Symptoms of depression and anxiety often go unnoticed or overlooked, and even the person experiencing these feelings may think these symptoms are a normal part of aging. According to a recent study done by Mental Health America, about 58% of people aged 65 and older believe it is “normal” for people to get depressed as they grow older. The Senior Life Solutions program at Carrol County Memorial Hospital wants you to know there are ways to restore your quality of life.

Do you feel like you’ve lost your “zest” for life? Take a look at the checklist below and check your mood:

· Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities

· Feelings of sadness or grief lasting more than two weeks

· Loss of energy, feeling tired all the time;

· Physical symptoms that can’t be otherwise explained (headaches, stomach aches, constipation, etc.)

· Feelings of worthlessness

· Feelings of hopelessness

· Feelings of guilt

· Not able to concentrate or think clearly

· Changes in appetite (either eating too much or too little)

· Change of sleeping patterns (sleeping too much or too little)

The check list is a great pre-screening tool for potential patients to see if they can benefit from the Senior Life Solutions program. 

If four or more of the above have been checked, it may be time to talk to someone.  We believe quality of life does not have to stop as we get older.

To make a referral, or for more information, please contact our staff at 660-542-1695, Ext. 3208.