Supporting Mental Well-being: How Home Care Helps Beyond the Physical

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

• Mental health is crucial in older adults, with many not receiving the help they need.
• Home care can provide comprehensive support for emotional well-being.
• Recognizing signs of emotional distress is vital for timely intervention.
• Companionship and routine can significantly improve mental health.
• A balanced diet supports both mental and physical health.

Table of Contents

• Recognising the Signs of Emotional Struggle in Older Loved Ones
• The Hidden Impact of Loneliness
• How More-Time Healthcare Supports Mental Well-Being at Home
• Nourishing the Mind Through Nutrition: The Gut-Brain Connection
• Here for Families in Kent, Essex, Romford, and London

Recognising the Signs of Emotional Struggle in Older Loved Ones

Mental health difficulties in older adults often present differently than how we might expect. They can creep in slowly, making them easy to overlook. Some common signs include:

• Withdrawal and Isolation: Older adults may choose to stay at home more often, avoid visitors or social activities, and not answer phone calls as frequently.
• Persistent Low Mood or Anxiety: Feelings of sadness, tearfulness, irritability, and worry can linger for weeks instead of just days.
• Loss of Interest: A sudden disinterest in favorite pastimes, television shows, or clubs may indicate emotional distress.
• Changes in Daily Habits: Difficulty sleeping, skipping meals, or experiencing a marked decrease in appetite are signals worth noting.
• Neglecting Self-Care: This can manifest as wearing the same clothes for days, reluctance to bathe, or a decline in personal grooming.
• Increased Physical Complaints: New or unexplained aches and pains, fatigue, and a general sense of slowing down can also be signs of underlying mental health issues.

Many older adults may be reluctant to express feelings of low mood or anxiety, often viewing these emotions as a sign of weakness or ‘bothering the doctor.’ A gentle change in mood or routine might be the only outward sign that they are struggling.

The Hidden Impact of Loneliness

Loneliness is not merely an uncomfortable feeling; it is a significant health concern among older adults. Government figures suggest that over a million older people in the UK regularly feel lonely, and nearly half of those over 75 live alone. Social separation can exacerbate existing health problems, diminish confidence, and heighten feelings of depression and anxiety.

For families living at a distance or juggling busy schedules, it can be distressing to know that an older relative spends extended periods alone. While a weekly visit or phone call is important, it may not be sufficient to counteract the isolation that many experience day-to-day.

How More-Time Healthcare Supports Mental Well-Being at Home

Here at More-Time Healthcare, we recognize that every visit represents an opportunity to support the whole person—emotionally, socially, and physically. Our carers, operating across Kent, Essex, Romford, and London, are trained to observe subtle changes in behavior and provide gentle, consistent support tailored to each individual’s needs.

1. Creating Reassuring Routines

Establishing a predictable, calming routine can be profoundly reassuring for someone who feels anxious, low, or overwhelmed. Our carers are dedicated to:

• Setting regular times for getting up, washing, dressing, and meals.
• Including small, enjoyable activities, such as reading the newspaper together or watering plants, to encourage engagement.
• Supporting a good sleep pattern by reinforcing a soothing evening routine.

Implementing these small daily structures diminishes feelings of chaos and promotes a sense of control and stability, both of which are crucial for better mood and reduced anxiety.

2. Medication Support and Physical Health

The connection between mental and physical health, especially in older adults, cannot be overstated. Pain, poor sleep, and unmanaged health conditions can exacerbate feelings of depression and anxiety.

At More-Time Healthcare, our carers are equipped to:

• Assist with prompting and supporting the correct administration of prescribed medications, including antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications as needed.
• Monitor for changes such as increased confusion, medication side effects, or a deterioration in mood, ensuring that any concerns are communicated promptly to families and healthcare professionals.
• Encourage gentle physical activity if appropriate, as movement can have mood-enhancing effects.

By addressing practical health needs, we create an environment where emotional well-being can flourish.

3. Companionship and Genuine Connection

For many of those we support, the most invaluable aspect of a visit is not just the tasks we perform but the quality time we share together.

Our committed carers provide:

• A friendly, familiar face and a listening ear.
• Opportunities to reminisce about shared memories or discuss family news, ensuring they feel heard and valued.
• Encouragement for social interactions, whether through brief neighbourly greetings or involvement in community groups, thereby fostering connection.

Using companionship as a tool against loneliness and isolation significantly contributes to improving mental health outcomes for older adults.

More than a “Pop-In”: Why Quality Time Matters

Not all visits deliver the same value. A hurried “pop-in” to check off a task may suffice to deliver medication or prepare a quick meal, but it rarely allows time for deeper conversations about how a senior is truly feeling.

At More-Time Healthcare, we understand the importance of:

• Time to Talk: Conversations should flow naturally without the pressure of a ticking clock.
• Time to Notice: Our carers are trained to pick up on subtle signs of emotional distress, including shifts in mood, appetite, personal care, or the condition of the home environment.
• Time to Connect: Share meaningful moments, whether it’s over a cup of tea, engaging in card games, gardening, or simply enjoying a favorite radio program together.

This emphasis on quality time helps older individuals feel seen, respected, and genuinely cared for, rather than merely being attended to.

Nourishing the Mind Through Nutrition: The Gut-Brain Connection

What we consume plays a vital role in our emotional well-being. There is increasing evidence that a balanced, nutritious diet can support better mood and energy levels. The Mental Health Foundation notes that this connection is especially critical in later life, where individuals may struggle with appetite and cooking capabilities.

Our dedicated carers assist with:

• Shopping and Meal Preparation, ensuring the provision of regular, nutritious meals.
• Encouraging shared mealtimes to transform eating from a solitary act into a meaningful social occasion.
• Monitoring changes in appetite, weight, and hydration to flag concerns early, allowing for prompt interventions.

By nurturing both diet and companionship, we strengthen the gut-brain connection and foster more robust mental well-being.

Here for Families in Kent, Essex, Romford, and London

If you have begun to notice concerning changes in an older loved one whether it’s less frequent phone calls, cancelled plans, a home that seems less cared for, or a dimming spark you don’t have to face these worries alone.

More-Time Healthcare delivers compassionate, person-centred home care throughout Kent, Essex, Romford, and London, focusing on both emotional and physical health.

If you are worried about a loved one’s well-being, reach out to More-Time Healthcare for a free consultation to discuss a holistic care plan.

Ensuring your loved one receives not only physical but also the emotional support they need is crucial in helping maintain their overall quality of life, reinforcing the notion that mental health matters at every age.

FAQ

Q: How can I tell if my loved one is having mental health issues?
A: Look for signs such as withdrawal from activities, persistent low mood, and neglecting self-care among others.

Q: How can home care support mental well-being?
A: Home care can provide companionship, establish routines, and ensure proper nutrition, all of which are vital for mental health.

Q: What should I do if I suspect my loved one is struggling?
A: Reach out to them with empathy and suggest a consultation with a professional or home care agency that can provide support.