For many older adults, behavioral health problems – such as depression, anxiety, memory loss and confusion – can be as serious as challenges to their physical health. According to the American Psychiatric Association, three million older adults suffer from moderate to severe brain disorders. One in 20 persons over 65 suffers from serious depression, and seniors have the highest suicide rate of any age group in America. But accurate diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions can greatly enhance the quality of life in later years.

That’s why we've established a special 40-bed unit within our hospital to focus on geropsychiatry, an area of medicine that addresses the unique physical and emotional needs of older adults. Our experienced, compassionate team of healthcare professionals is dedicated to providing the tender care and the emotional support these patients need.

Senior Behavioral Health Unit
Our Senior Behavioral Health Unit is located in a secured area of the hospital and offers short-term treatment to stabilize patients ages 55 and over who are experiencing a crisis that cannot be managed in an outpatient setting. After a comprehensive assessment, we provide an individualized treatment plan.

Our Team Approach
Because a number of factors impact a person’s mental health, we take a team approach to treatment. These healthcare professionals work together to address each person’s unique needs. Our team includes:

• Psychiatrists
• Licensed clinical social workers
• Registered nurses
• Certified nursing assistants
• Rehabilitation therapists

Mental Health Conditions
Among the symptoms and conditions we assess and treat are:

• Anxiety
  Difficulty sleeping; feelings of restlessness, panic or impending doom; sudden inability to deal with stressful situations
   
• Depression
  Inability to accept or adjust to loss; significant change in appetite, sleep patterns or energy levels; feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness or guilt; loss of interest in pleasurable activities
   
• Chronic Pain
  Uncontrolled, continuing pain; use of multiple pain medications
   
• Psychosis
  Seeing, smelling, hearing or feelings things that aren’t there
   
• Paranoia
  Accusing others of negative behaviors or thoughts that are unrealistic; combative or violent behavior
   
• Cognitive Changes
  Significant memory loss; impaired judgment and insight; inability to take care of day-to-day needs; acute deterioration of coping skills and judgment, placing the person or others at risk
   
• Suicidal or Homicidal Feelings
  Thoughts of death, suicide or murder; self-injuring behavior
   
• Phobias
  Fears that limit daily activity
   
• Mood disorders
  Severe mood swings; feelings of elation, unlimited energy, pacing, or lack of sleep; sudden onset of severe depression

Services
Our team offers a wide range of medical and behavioral health services, including:

• Psychiatric assessment and treatment
• Management of medical conditions
• Medication management
• Dietary consultation
• Recreational therapy assessment and treatment
• Psychotherapy (individual, family and group)
• Education for patients and families on diagnosis, treatment options and medications
• Assistance with discharge planning and financial issues

Referrals
Anyone can begin a referral to our Senior Behavioral Health Unit, including friends and family members, primary care physicians, social service agencies, clergy, and long-term care facilities.

Before admission, we perform a free screening to ensure that the patient is medically stable and meets our unit’s criteria for admission. For evaluation or admission information, please call (702) 657-5754.