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As we get older, our life transforms at each new stage of life. Our children grow up and our relationship with them becomes one of long distance. Once retirement comes, we experience a significant change in our daily routine, which is often accompanied by feelings of loss. Retirement often means the loss of many social relationships associated with our job. For some, retirement may also bring the loss in a sense of purpose.
We may also experience the loss of family and friends as we grow older. Health challenges or loneliness bring new challenges to this stage of life. However, it is important to recognize that we are living in a time where now more than ever, we can achieve a high quality of life and fulfillment during our senior years. Getting help at this new stage of life can give you the assistance you need to coast happily into your golden years, without the expected accompanying stress. |
Therapy for seniors |
Psychotherapy and cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) for seniors has been underutilized and underappreciated. Evidence shows that both psychotherapy and CBT are very effective for retirees and the elderly. However, in some areas there is a shortage of therapists with adequate training.
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Why start therapy now? |
We need healthy connection with others throughout our lifespan. Therapy can help on multiple levels. In addition to learning coping skills and lifestyle changes to increase health and functioning at this new stage of life, a connection with a therapist can allow a space for healing of current and past issues.
Therapy can help seniors dealing with a range of mental and emotional issues, allowing for a greater quality of life and more fulfilling relationships. To learn more about psychotherapy for seniors in the Chicago metropolitan area, or to schedule an appointment, call today or fill out the contact form and click Submit. |
What issues are addressed in therapy for seniors and retirees?
Low self esteem can often occur as we get older. Our society places an enormous value on youth and if we internalize these attitudes, our sense of our own value can decrease substantially. You can fight this feeling.
Coping with loss. This is true for all of us. As the years pass, family and friends can be lost to illness, moving away, or death. We also lose our jobs as a result of retirement. Retirement can bring a drop in income and a feeling of financial insecurity. Life transitions bring with them change and sometimes this can be experienced as multiple losses.
Depression and anxiety can be experienced both as a result of life changes as well as a natural susceptibility for depression. Some people experience higher levels of depression throughout their lifespan, and when they get older they are susceptible to develop depression and/or anxiety.
Cognitive decline should be addressed if changes are noticed in your cognitive functioning. You can read more about the symptoms of cognitive decline here. In general, mild cognitive decline is not treated with medication but instead with learning coping mechanisms as well as natural strategies to increase cognitive function and prevent further decline.
Coping with loss. This is true for all of us. As the years pass, family and friends can be lost to illness, moving away, or death. We also lose our jobs as a result of retirement. Retirement can bring a drop in income and a feeling of financial insecurity. Life transitions bring with them change and sometimes this can be experienced as multiple losses.
Depression and anxiety can be experienced both as a result of life changes as well as a natural susceptibility for depression. Some people experience higher levels of depression throughout their lifespan, and when they get older they are susceptible to develop depression and/or anxiety.
Cognitive decline should be addressed if changes are noticed in your cognitive functioning. You can read more about the symptoms of cognitive decline here. In general, mild cognitive decline is not treated with medication but instead with learning coping mechanisms as well as natural strategies to increase cognitive function and prevent further decline.