Older Adults

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the impact of mental health issues like depression can have a severe impact on older adults’ health. Research has reported that depression is associated with health issues in people with conditions like heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Depression can complicate the treatment of these conditions, making it more difficult for someone to care for themselves and to seek treatment when needed. In older adults, depression may be disregarded as frailty, or it may be viewed as an inevitable result of life changes, chronic illness and disability. Recognizing the signs of a mental health issue in senior adults and seeing a behavioral health practitioner is the first step to getting treatment.

Warning signs include:

• Noticeable changes in mood, energy level, or appetite
• Feeling flat or having trouble feeling positive emotions
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
• Difficulty concentrating, feeling restless, or on edge
• Increased worry or feeling stressed
• Anger, irritability or aggressiveness
• Ongoing headaches, digestive issues, or pain
• A need for alcohol or drugs
• Sadness or hopelessness
• Suicidal thoughts
• Feeling flat or having trouble feeling positive emotions
• Engaging in high-risk activities
• Obsessive thinking or compulsive behavior
• Thoughts or behaviors that interfere with work, family, or social life
• Unusual thinking or behaviors that concern other people

The Senior Adult Program at Austin Lakes Hospital is geared toward diagnosing, stabilizing and treating the complex issues faced by aging adults. Treatment focuses on addressing the physical, social and mental changes that may occur during the aging process.

• Austin Lakes Hospital is the only psychiatric facility in Austin that provides inpatient crisis services to senior adults
• Treatment includes diagnostics, stabilization and treatment of complex senior adult-related issues
  Our supportive care services are designed for individuals age 55 and older who are experiencing severe emotional, cognitive or behavioral symptoms
• Symptoms may include memory loss, mood disturbance, anxiety, difficulty coping with losses and transitions or behavioral symptoms
• This program may support individuals who have developed issues with substance and/or medication abuse

A no-cost, confidential assessment can help determine whether this program is appropriate for you or a loved one. Please contact us at 512-544-5253 to learn more.

Insurance Coverage

Medicare and other private insurers may provide reimbursement for our services. Austin Lakes Hospital is contracted for services with most major insurance companies. To speak with a financial counselor, please contact our admissions line at 512-544-5253.

*Information provided by The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Talking with one of our mental health professionals could help answer your questions and identify how we may be able to help you or your loved one. We offer no-cost, confidential assessments 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 512-544-5253. If you are currently experiencing an emergency, please dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.