January is Mental Wellness Month, a time to reflect on the importance of mental health and wellness. Mental wellness plays an important role in enhancing quality of life, building resilience, improving mood, and fostering inner peace. Additionally, good mental health has a positive impact on physical health. For instance, research highlights that individuals with strong mental well-being tend to recover more effectively from illnesses and enjoy longer, healthier lives (Lamers et al., 2012).
Mental Wellness Month is an opportunity to focus on seniors’ wellness and ensure older adults have access to the resources and support needed to thrive.
Fast Facts About Seniors’ Mental Health
According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada:
- As many as 1 in 3 older adults living independently report a need for mental health care.
- 12% of adults aged 65 and older report experiencing social isolation.
- Delays in mental health diagnosis increase as people age.
- 22% of seniors screened positive for depression in one study.
- Only 5% of older adults access health services for mood or anxiety disorders.
These statistics underscore the need for increased awareness and accessible mental wellness resources for seniors.
Tips for Supporting Seniors’ Mental Wellness
Promoting mental wellness starts with understanding one’s unique personal needs. Here are some practical strategies for seniors, caregivers, family members, and health professionals to help support emotional balance and promote seniors’ mental wellness:
- Stay socially connected: Engage in regular activities with family, friends, or community groups.
- Prioritize physical activity: Exercise helps reduce stress and improve mood.
- Maintain a healthy diet: Proper nutrition supports both mental and physical health.
- Stimulate cognitive engagement: Activities like learning new skills or playing cognitive games can enhance mental acuity.
- Promote good sleep hygiene: Consistent and restful sleep is essential for overall well-being.
- Monitor mental health and wellness regularly: Don’t hesitate to seek professional help or utilize available resources when needed.
Community Resources for Mental Wellness in British Columbia
310Mental Health Support
- Phone: 310-6789 (no area code needed)
- Provides toll-free emotional support, information, and mental health resources in B.C.
Seniors Distress Line
- Phone: 604-872-1234
- Chat: www.CrisisCentreChat.ca
- Operated by The Crisis Centre of BC, the Seniors Distress Line and Crisis Centre Chat offers non-judgmental support, risk assessment, safety planning, and emergency services.
Caregiver Support Line
- Phone: 1-877-520-3267 (toll-free)
- Operated by Family Caregivers of BC, the Caregiver Support Line provides emotional support, caregiver groups, system navigation, and educational resources for caregivers.
For additional resources, please visit Route65.ca’s Community Resources page.
Route65.ca recognizes the critical role wellness plays in seniors’ lives. Our platform provides resources and tools to help seniors and their families navigate seniors’ wellness in British Columbia, including access to wellness services. Whether you’re seeking information for yourself or on behalf of someone else, Route65.ca is here to help guide you.
References
- Lamers, S.M., Boiler, L., Westerhof G.J., Smit, F., & Bohlmeijer, E.T. (2012). The impact of emotional well-being on long-term recovery and survival in physical illness: a meta-analysis. J Behav Med, 35(5), 538-47. doi: 10.1007/s10865-011-9379-8.
- Mental Health Commission of Canada. (2024, June 26). Older adult mental health and well-being.