Senior Life Solutions: Shining a Light on Mental Health Awareness Month
COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS BROUGHT TO YOU BY FLOYD COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER:
In this insightful interview, Jessica Perry, program director and nurse at Senior Life Solutions at Mitchell County Regional Health Center in Osage, and Ashley Evans from MercyOne North Iowa in New Hampton, discuss the importance of mental health for seniors during Mental Health Awareness Month. They highlight the Senior Life Solutions program, an outpatient initiative for adults 65 and older, offering group, individual, and family therapy to address depression and anxiety. The program aims to reduce stigma, improve quality of life, and foster resilience. Key signs of mental health struggles in seniors include changes in eating habits, weight fluctuations, isolation, irritability, and loss of interest in hobbies. Jessica and Ashley emphasize the importance of open conversations, expressing concern with “I” statements, and comparing mental health to physical health to encourage seeking help. They share upcoming community events, including a mental health awareness walk in Osage on May 15, a presentation on May 22, and a resource-filled walk in Mason City on May 18. They also stress the availability of resources for all ages with the discussion underscoring the need to destigmatize mental health, particularly among seniors, and promote access to care year-round.
For more information, reach out to Jessica at (641) 732-6190 and/or Ashley at (641) 394-1627 or go to Mitchell County Regional Health Center’s website.
