Aging can present a variety of challenges that make it more difficult for a person to meet all their needs on their own. However, this challenge can be even harder when one is also managing a mental illness—such as depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. That’s why families should seek out specialized care when loved ones need both physical and mental health support. If someone you know could benefit from senior care, here is what you should know about assisted living for mental health conditions.

A Simple Guide to Mental Health Assisted Living Facilities

What Is Assisted Living for Mental Health?

In general, assisted living refers to communities where residents can live somewhat independently, but still have access to continued medical and personal care. Mental health facilities also offer these services, but also provide specialized care to address psychiatric concerns.

While moving into an assisted living community can be a major transition, the shift helps to improve seniors’ overall quality of life. In addition to providing enhanced comfort, mental health-focused communities make it easier for individuals to stabilize their moods by facilitating treatment plans as dictated by a psychiatric doctor.   

When Should One Consider a Specialized Facility?

Not every individual with a mental illness may need to enter a specialized community. For example, seniors who can manage depression with medication alone may still get the support they need at a standard assisted living center.

However, if your loved one’s condition presents complications, it may be better for them to move into a mental health facility. This option may be ideal if your relative’s mental health impedes their ability to complete daily tasks, has impaired physical well-being, or requires a combination of therapeutic treatments.

How Do These Facilities Manage Mental Health Conditions?

Staff members of these communities possess special training to care for people with mental health conditions in a kind, respectful, and compassionate manner. As such, they will make sure your loved one receives the right medication and can identify behavioral changes that may require medical care.

These centers may also provide a variety of therapy and counseling programs to help individuals cope with their condition. In addition, nutritious meals, fitness, and other activities are carefully scheduled so residents can maintain a stable, consistent routine.

Finding the right assisted living community for your loved one can be difficult, especially if they also need specialized mental health care. Fortunately, residents in the White Plains, NY, area can turn to CarePatrol of New York to simplify their search. This service specializes in assisted living placement and will use their expansive network to locate highly qualified residences that meet your relative’s specific health, personal care, and financial needs. To see what kinds of communities they connect with, start your search on their website. Or, call (914) 357-8084 to ask about a specific type of care you’re looking for.