Mental health challenges are common across age groups, but seniors often face a series of life changes — such as losing a spouse or dealing with chronic illnesses — that put them at risk.
Navigating these changes in life can be especially difficult, but building a supportive environment and fostering a sense of community can help reduce loneliness and more mental-health problems in the future.
In honour of Mental Health Week, Evangeline Ramos, director of wellness operations at Amica Senior Lifestyles, sat down to share her knowledge on the subject. Her team promotes mental-health awareness and well-being for seniors, highlighting the importance of senior mental health, this week and beyond.
Q: What is your role at Amica and how does it relate to mental health?
A: As a member of the National Wellness Team, my primary focus is on ensuring quality and maintaining high standards of care throughout our wellness operations, which are closely connected to the mental health of our residents. I am responsible for the development and implementation of assessment standards and processes to ensure compliance with best practices and regulatory requirements. I recognize that comprehensive evaluations must consider not only physical health but also the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals.
While my role encompasses the development and evaluation of wellness program strategies, my main priority is to establish and uphold quality standards that inform our care practices. Providing high-quality care is vital for promoting mental health, as it cultivates trust, safety, and a supportive environment for our residents.
Q: Why are seniors vulnerable to mental-health challenges?
A: As individuals age, they may encounter situations that can adversely affect their mental health, such as the loss of loved ones, chronic health issues, or decreased independence.
These experiences can lead to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression, creating a cycle that can be difficult to break.
Maintaining good mental health for seniors is essential not only for building resilience but also for promoting emotional stability. Seniors with good mental health are better equipped to face the inevitable changes and challenges that come with aging.
Q: How can good mental health make a significant difference in a senior’s life, specifically?
A: They’re more likely to develop coping strategies that help them manage stress and maintain a positive outlook on life. Additionally, good mental health encourages active participation in social activities, which are vital for maintaining connections and avoiding isolation.
Engaging with others can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging, which is crucial for their overall happiness. Positive mental health is associated with improved cognitive function. Research suggests mentally and socially active seniors are more likely to preserve their cognitive abilities, which is crucial for maintaining independence and quality of life.
Q: How does your team support mental-health awareness and support for seniors?
A: Our Amica Wellness teams promote mental-health awareness and well-being for seniors through a holistic approach that addresses physical and emotional needs. Here’s how we achieve this:
- Comprehensive assessments: We assess the physical needs, emotional needs and mental health of residents. This thorough evaluation is used to identify potential mental-health concerns, so we can tailor our support accordingly.
- Personalized wellness plans: We develop individualized care plans for each resident to address their specific mental and physical health needs. These plans are dynamic and can be adjusted as necessary to ensure residents receive the most effective support tailored to their evolving needs. This personalized approach is crucial in fostering a sense of security and well-being.
- Family involvement: We actively involve family members in the care process, providing guidance on how they can support their loved ones’ well-being, equipping them with the knowledge and resources to create a supportive home environment. This strengthens the overall support network for residents.
- Collaborative support: Our approach emphasizes collaboration among team members, families, and external health professionals. This collaborative support system helps residents feel valued, understood, and empowered to lead fulfilling lives.
- Resource provision: We offer resources to residents and their families, including information on mental-health services, community support options, and educational materials.
- Supportive environment: We support activities designed to nurture engagement among residents. These activities play a vital role in combating feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can significantly impact mental health.
By promoting social interactions, we help strengthen relationships and build a sense of community, enhancing overall well-being.
Q: What do you do to support your mental health?
A: Supporting my mental health is a priority, and engaging in activities that bring me joy outside of work helps me maintain a positive mindset.
One of my favourite pastimes is playing video games, which allows me to immerse myself in different worlds and narratives. This helps me unwind and connect with friends, building social bonds through shared experiences.
I also play chess, which challenges my mind while encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving. I appreciate the mental stimulation, and it’s often a welcome distraction from daily stressors. Playing chess with friends or family also promotes social interaction, a crucial aspect of emotional well-being.
Travelling is another passion of mine. Exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, and stepping outside my comfort zone can be incredibly refreshing.
Travel allows me to break away from routine, gain new perspectives, and create lasting memories with loved ones. Each trip is an opportunity for adventure and personal growth, helping to rejuvenate my spirit.
Walking with my husband is a wonderfully relaxing way to support my mental health. These walks provide us with quality time to connect, away from the distractions of daily life.
Q: What do you wish people could understand about mental health?
A: Mental health is just as vital as physical health and should not be neglected. Mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstances, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Research shows mental health has a significant impact on physical health outcomes. A study published in the journal Biopsychosocial Science and Medicine found individuals with depression are at a higher risk for chronic physical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
It’s clearly important to proactively address mental health. By leading conversations and reducing the stigma around mental health, we can create a supportive environment that encourages individuals to seek help and prioritize their mental well-being.
Indeed, this phrase originally coined by a former director at the World Health Organization, is true, “There is no health without mental health.”
Interested in a career working in wellness at Amica? Check out careers.amica.ca.