As the holiday season approaches, many of us are preparing to see our family and friends. However, amidst the pandemic crisis, seniors, in particular, may have reservations about going out and celebrating due to their fear of contracting the virus. It is a difficult time for them, as isolation and loneliness become daily challenges. Online counseling may serve as a valuable tool in connecting them with experts in mental health.
Understanding the Impact of the Holidays on Seniors’ Mental Well-being
The holiday season is a time of year that many people look forward to with anticipation and joy. It’s a time when families and friends come together to celebrate traditions, exchange gifts, and enjoy special foods. However, for seniors, these celebrations can also take a toll on their mental health. An estimated 2 million Americans over the age of 65 suffer from depression. Many of these cases are triggered by the holiday season.
During the holidays, seniors may experience changes to their daily routines that can trigger loneliness or confusion. Friends and family may be away celebrating with others, leaving seniors isolated and alone. They may also feel out of place in their community as the holiday season can change schedules, surroundings, and routines.
The holiday season can be expensive because of gifts, decorations, and meals. These costs may be overwhelming for seniors, particularly those with limited resources. When seniors experience financial strain, it puts them at increased risk for depression and anxiety.
Seniors may need help adjusting to new traditions or changes to their usual holiday routines. As a caregiver or family member, involve seniors in planning and encourage them to share their ideas and preferences. Be flexible and open to new traditions incorporating seniors’ preferences and values.
Another challenge is the memory of lost loved ones. The festive season can remind them of people who have passed and lead to feelings of grief and sadness. Such emotions can be overwhelming and affect mental well-being, as seniors tend to dwell on these feelings. However, it’s crucial to process the emotions and not ignore them. One solution is to engage in online counseling and seek professional help if the emotions become too hard to handle.
What is Online Counseling and How Does it Work for Seniors
Online counseling, also known as teletherapy or e-counseling, is a mental health service that allows individuals to receive therapy services through an internet-connected device like a smartphone, tablet, or computer. This technology-enabled platform allows seniors to connect with licensed therapists or counselors from the comfort of their homes. It has been proven to be just as effective as traditional in-person counseling.
Virtual therapy or online counseling enables seniors to access mental health services through various mediums like video conferencing, phone calls, chat, or text messages. The process of seeking counseling services online is straightforward. Seniors can search for licensed therapists or counseling services that provide online therapy. Once they find one that suits their needs, they can schedule their appointment and decide on the medium to receive therapy. Next, they’ll have to complete an intake form, which helps the therapist assess their current mental health status and design a treatment plan that suits their needs.
The Benefits of Online Counseling during the Holidays
The pandemic may have made it difficult for in-person counseling sessions, but online counseling has only grown in popularity during this crisis. This holiday season, online counseling allows seniors to prioritize their mental health and well-being during an emotionally taxing time. Online counseling offers many benefits for seniors.
No Travel Required – One major advantage of online counseling is that seniors can participate from the comfort of their homes. This eliminates the stress of physically traveling to an appointment, especially if the weather is bad. It also minimizes the risk of sickness exposure when leaving home is unnecessary. This convenience can make attending therapy much more accessible for seniors who might struggle to leave their homes otherwise.
Flexibility – Online counseling provides seniors with flexibility in scheduling appointments. It’s often easier to find a time that works well with their lifestyle, which minimizes the stress of trying to find a time that is also convenient for the therapist. This is particularly true during the holidays, when seniors may have more obligations such as holiday shopping or preparing for family get-togethers, which online counseling can more easily work around.
More Comfortable Environment – Seniors often feel more comfortable speaking with a therapist in a familiar and safe environment. They may also feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings from the comfort of their own home. The home can be a secure and non-threatening environment for seniors, making opening up to a therapist easier.
Fewer Stigmas – Unfortunately, there is still a significant stigma surrounding therapy for many seniors. Online counseling provides a more private and discreet setting for therapy sessions. There’s no waiting room, and seniors can participate in therapy without worrying about running into someone they know. This can help alleviate fears and reduce the stigma of seeking help.
Increased Access to Support– Online counseling can provide seniors greater access to counseling and therapy. Finding a therapist near them can be challenging for seniors who live in rural or remote areas. Online counseling can connect seniors with mental health professionals nationwide, allowing them a greater range of choices. Furthermore, online counseling can be more affordable for seniors who may struggle to afford traditional counseling services.
While online counseling offers several benefits for seniors, it also has shortcomings. Some of these include:
Technical Difficulties – Since online counseling requires an internet connection and technological devices like a smartphone, tablet, or computer, technical glitches like poor internet connection and software malfunctions might affect the quality of the sessions.
Limited Non-Verbal Cues – Online counseling cannot replace the connection when communicating in person with a therapist. This is because nonverbal cues play a significant role in communication, and these might be limited in online therapy sessions.
Lack of Physical Comfort – Online counseling can provide a comfortable and safe space for seniors to share their thoughts and feelings. Still, it cannot replace the physical comfort of a therapy session. Sitting in a comfy armchair and talking face-to-face with their therapist may feel more therapeutic for some seniors.
However, these potential drawbacks of online counseling can be overcome by finding the right therapist and utilizing the available technology effectively. With online counseling, seniors can still receive top-notch therapy that meets their unique needs and helps them enhance their emotional well-being.
Where to Find Trusted Services for Senior Mental Health Care
When finding reliable and reputable online counseling services for seniors, there are a few things to remember. First, it’s essential to research and look for licensed therapists who specialize in working with older adults. You can also ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have used online counseling services.
Another option is to seek out websites catering to senior mental health care. These sites often have a team of qualified therapists experienced in working with older adults and can provide personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs.
Here at Total Life, we offer comprehensive online therapy services that Medicare covers. Our chief commitment is to ensure that each client receives personalized attention and care. We strive to provide individuals with the necessary support and resources to enhance their mental health.
What sets us apart is our team of therapists who come with extensive experience in working with seniors. They are trained in various therapeutic approaches, ensuring our clients receive the highest quality of care. We understand that each journey is unique, and so should the approach to therapy. So, let us navigate mental health like a jigsaw puzzle – a piece at a time together.
Tips for Preparing for an Online Counseling Session
Preparing for an online counseling session might be a new experience for seniors, but it is a straightforward process. Make sure to choose a quiet and private place for the session, preferably away from household distractions. Seniors should also test their internet connection, camera, and microphone connection before the session. Having a list of topics or issues to discuss during the session is important, making the most out of the time spent with the counselor.
What to Expect During an Online Counseling Session?
The first online counseling session is usually an introduction to the counselor and the therapeutic process. The counselor will seek to connect with the seniors and understand their concerns and challenges. The session may involve answering questions about the senior’s medical history, emotional state, and lifestyle habits. The counselor may also provide seniors with practical coping strategies or exercises. Finally, the sessions are confidential, and the counselors are ethically obligated not to share personal information.
Conclusion
The holiday season can be challenging for seniors, even after the pandemic crisis. Still, online counseling has enabled them to connect with licensed professionals without leaving their homes. Several online resources are available, including counseling, meditation classes, mindfulness practices, and online support groups. The tips highlighted in this article can help seniors prepare for an online counseling session, maximize their time with the counselor, and prioritize their emotional and mental health. Online counseling may make all the difference during these challenging times, and we recommend seniors take advantage of it. After all, everyone deserves to have a happy and healthy holiday season! Let’s make it happen together.
Visit them today at Total Life.com or call 1 800 567 5433 and let the magic of Total Life redefine your holiday season. Because your well-being deserves a spotlight.
