Detecting poor mental health in older adults – whose responsibility is it?

Entry into residential care can be one of the most stressful life events which presents a number of challenges. Having a mental health condition, such as depression or anxiety adds to this. The move involves changes to routine, loss of independence and physical relocation to a new environment. According to the latest findings from the Australian Institute of Health and Wellbeing (2012) at admission 52 percent of residents present with symptoms of depression.

Prior to admission to residential care, it is important for the aged care provider to assess the support needs for the individual. This includes assessing the outcome of Aged Care Funding Instrument (ACFI) to determine if the individual is “high” or “low” care recipient, liaison with family and the residents. Aged care facilities must consider the impact of diagnosis of depression on the individual, treatment options and the required person-centered support. In general, residents with symptoms of depression have higher care needs. The sooner the mental illness is detected, discussed with the GP and referred for treatment, the easier it is to treat.

The cost of poor health is very high. If a mental health condition is not treated in time the individual will require more support which adds to the cost of staffing and also the personal toll on the individual and their health. Individuals with depression are likely to have other conditions (co-morbidities) which affect their physical and emotional wellbeing and life expectancy.

Wise Care is one of beyondblue’s two national licensees who deliver Professional Education to Aged Care (PEAC) training for workers in the community and residential care. Our facilitators are accredited to deliver the three hour workshop on site at your organisation.

This training assists workers by providing:

• a greater understanding of depression and anxiety in older people
• an understanding of how their work can impact upon a resident or client’s mental health
• strategies for working with residents or clients who have depression and/or anxiety
• an understanding of the process for reporting their concerns
• an understanding of screening tools and referrals/pathways to care
• an understanding of effective management of older people with depression and/or anxiety and/or dementia.

Offering beyondblue training can save staffing costs for your organisation, up-skill the workers in detecting mental health conditions, and provide appropriate referral pathways for the resident. This process will ensure the resident receives appropriate and timely treatment and are comfortable in their twilight years. In most cases, the cost of individual therapy is paid by the service user.

During the National Psychology Week (11-15 November 2013) we are offering the training at our special rate. Contact us today if you would like to find out more.