Veterans Memorial Hospital opens mental health program for older adults
VMH and Senior Life Solutions ... Veterans Memorial Hospital has partnered with Senior Life Solutions to help older adults who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental challenges often associated with aging. Pictured above is the Senior Life Solutions staff available at Veterans Memorial Hospital, from left to right, including Katherine Osmundson, Office and Patient Coordinator; Kayla Baxter, Therapist, and Mandy Pettit, RN Program Director. Anyone can refer a patient to this program by calling the Veterans Memorial Hospital Senior Life Solutions program at 563-568-5560. Submitted photo.
Veterans Memorial Hospital (VMH) has partnered with Senior Life Solutions to help older adults who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental challenges often associated with aging. The new Senior Health Solutions program is located on the upper level of Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon.
Senior Life Solutions provides outpatient services designed to meet the unique needs of individuals (typically 65 and older) who could benefit from coping and communication skills to improve their mental health. The program offers group and individual therapy, psychiatric evaluation, and medication management. The Senior Life Solutions team includes a board-certified psychiatrist, licensed therapists, a registered nurse, and other professionals dedicated to the emotional well-being of the older adults in our community.
“Our Senior Life Solutions Program supports older adults by improving mental health and overall quality of life. Mental health challenges are common yet often stigmatized” said Mandy Pettit, RN Program Director. “Open conversations help individuals understand their emotional well-being, recognize concerns like depression or anxiety, and seek support just as they would for physical health conditions.”
Individuals may benefit from the Veterans Memorial Hospital Senior Life Solutions program if they are experiencing any of the following common indicators or triggers of depression and anxiety:
• Anxiety
• Changes in appetite
• Depression
• Difficulty sleeping
• Feelings of sadness or grief lasting more than two weeks
• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
• Lost a spouse or close family member
• Loss of energy
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Recently experienced a traumatic event
Following an individual assessment, participants meet up to three times per week in a supportive, encouraging group setting. Individual therapy sessions are also offered, along with medication management and regular check-ins. The program also offers teletherapy services, allowing patients to get the mental health support they need from the comfort of their homes using a telephone, computer, or tablet device.
Anyone can refer a patient to the program, including a healthcare professional, family member, or friend. For more information, call the Veterans Memorial Hospital Senior Life Solutions program at 563-568-5560.
