ELDER SERVICES
(Age 55 and over)
Older adults may
experience changes, some of which are not unique to elder persons, but nevertheless are disturbing to them and their loved
ones.
These changes may
include:
Physical
changes associated with aging
Retirement
and living on a fixed income
Relocation
into new surroundings
Loss
of status and self-esteem
Placement
in a nursing home
Changes
in nutritional needs
Dependence
on family members
Caring
for elderly parents or spouse
Sometimes, the
elderly experience the following mental health problems:
Depression
Grief
from loss of family and friends through death
Serious
mental illness
Medication
and/or alcohol abuse
Older adults and
families who experience any of the above, or other problems, can find help through
the Elder Services Program offered at CMHS.
Elder
Services works within the community to help individuals solve problems by
establishing new goals and directions. People are encouraged to stay in the community
and deal with day-to-day problems in a setting where the most support can be found.
Client Services
Available
Individual
and group therapy
Psychiatric
examinations and medical advice
Support
groups
Educational materials and information for family
members, caregivers, nursing homes, etc.
Day
treatment and short-term inpatient services
Our
services include assessments, consultation in which concerned professionals
provide help and direction; consultation with nursing homes and other agencies
within the community; an interview with a psychiatrist; an individual service
plan that lists problems and proposed solutions; an educational program for the
adult children and other family members of elders; and special support groups
for those dealing with Alzheimer's disease, grief and loss, or grandparents raising
their grandchildren. Services are available for caregivers.