Risk Factors In Aging Adults

A mental health condition isn’t simply the result of one individual event. Instead, it’s due to multiple interlinking causes, including genetics or a family history of mental illness, the environment, and a person’s lifestyle choices.

Vulnerability increases for individuals who are exposed to things like prolonged stress from a job or personal life, as well as exposure to physical and emotional trauma or being the victim of crime. Basic brain structure and nutrition also significantly affect mental health effects.

While it’s nearly impossible to predict who could develop a mental health disorder, some risk factors increase one’s chances. Here are some of the most common factors that could trigger a mental illness in aging seniors:

• Dementia or cognitive decline
• Chronic pain
• Malnutrition
• Reduced mobility
• Social isolation
• Medication side effects
• Grief or widowhood

If you or someone you care about experiences these difficulties, you should be especially watchful of their mental health.

…Now, click “next” to learn about some of the biggest ways aging can impact a senior’s mental health!