If your parents’ mood has changed, you are not alone. Mood and memory can shift as people grow older. Minor changes may mean stress or tiredness. Bigger or lasting changes can show a medical issue. We outline simple steps you can take. We also explain how we can support you and your parents in Washington.
How to Spot Mood Changes
Watch for things that do not fit your parent’s usual self. Look for changes that last more than two weeks.
Signs to notice:
- They seem sad most days.
- They sleep much more or much less.
- They stop doing things they used to enjoy.
- They seem anxious, worried, or restless.
- They repeat stories or seem more confused than before.
- They talk about being hopeless or worthless.
Short, small changes are regular sometimes. What matters is if the shift stays or gets worse.
Why Mood Changes Happen
Aging brings many shifts. Some are normal. Others are medical.
Common causes include:
- Health problems like pain, infections, or thyroid issues.
- Changes in medicines or new medicines.
- Losses, such as friends or routine.
- Dementia or memory problems.
- Depression or anxiety that starts in later life.
An apparent reason can make finding the proper support easier.
What to do first
Start simple and kind. The initial steps you take can have a significant impact.
Talk Calmly
- Say you have noticed changes. Use short, caring sentences. For example: “I’ve noticed that you’ve been feeling a bit low lately. Would you want to express your thoughts?” Let them speak. Listen more than you talk.
Check Basic Needs
- Make sure they eat, sleep, and take medicine. Look for pain or signs of illness. Minor health issues can change mood.
Keep a Record
- Write down what you see. Note dates, what happened, and any new medicines. A simple list helps a doctor understand the pattern.
Ask Family to Help
- Share your notes with close family. Decide who will check in on visits or calls. You don’t need to face this by yourself.
When to Reach Out For Professional Care
If mood or memory changes last more than two weeks, or if your parents talk about hurting themselves, call a doctor right away.
Seek professional care when:
- They stop eating or drinking.
- They have big memory problems that affect safety.
- They say they want to harm themselves.
- They are very sleepy or very confused.
A doctor can check for medical causes and discuss next steps.
How Geriatric Psychiatry Can Help
Geriatric psychiatry focuses on the mental well-being of older adults. Daybreak Telepsych offers geriatric psychiatry that is built for seniors.
Here is what that means:
- Doctors know how memory and mood change with age.
- They check for depression, anxiety, dementia, and other issues.
- They look at medicines and physical health that affect mood.
- They incorporate the family into care planning when the patient gives their approval.
Daybreak Telepsych works with patients and families to make a clear plan. That plan can include medication, counseling, and ways to keep life safer and calmer.
Why Telepsych Works For Older Adults
Remote visits can be easier for many families. Telepsych means seeing a doctor by video or phone.
Benefits include:
- No travel for the patient if it is hard to leave home.
- Loved ones can join the visit from another room or another city.
- Visits can be quicker to set up than in-person care.
- Doctors can see how the patient is at home, which helps with real-life planning.
Daybreak Telepsych provides these services in Washington. They focus on safe and gentle care.
How to Prepare For a Telepsych Visit
A little prep visits better.
Before the visit:
- Write a short list of symptoms and when they started.
- List all medicines, vitamins, and supplements.
- Note any falls, memory lapses, or changes in sleep or appetite.
- Have a quiet place with good light and a working phone or tablet.
During the visit:
- Let your parent speak first if they can.
- Share your notes and ask about next steps.
- At the end of the visit, request a straightforward summary.
What to Expect After the Visit
The doctor will make a plan. That plan might include:
- A physical exam or lab tests.
- A change in medicines.
- Regular follow-up visits by video or phone.
- Referrals to local services or support groups.
If memory is a concern, the doctor may suggest tests to check thinking and memory. These tests help decide the best care.
Caring For Yourself
Caring for an aging parent is heavy work. Your well-being matters too.
Do this for yourself:
- Take short breaks. Even a walk helps.
- Talk to a friend or family member about how you feel.
- Ask for help with errands or visits.
- Learn what local services can assist with meals, home care, or transport.
If you feel worn out or very sad, see your own doctor. Family caregivers sometimes need support and care.
Safety Planning
If your parents have memory issues or confusion, safety matters.
Simple safety steps:
- Remove loose rugs and clutter that can cause falls.
- Use night lights and handrails in the bathroom.
- Keep an updated list of medicines in a clear place.
- Think about a medical alert system if they are living by themselves.
A small change at home can prevent big problems.
Getting Started With Daybreak Telepsych
Daybreak Telepsych is focused on geriatric psychiatry in Washington. They aim for care that is kind and clear.
To start:
- Gather your notes and medicine list.
- Call or visit the Daybreak Telepsych site to set up a Telepsych visit.
- Ask if a family member can join the session.
- Ask about cost and insurance during the first call.
The team will help you start and create a follow-up plan.
Final Thoughts
You are making a wise choice by observing and taking action. Mood changes in older adults can be scary. But many causes are treatable. Keep a calm, steady approach. Use short notes. Talk to your parents with care. Reach out to Daybreak Telepsych when you need a doctor who knows older adults. You are not the only one dealing with this. The steps that you take today can make your parents feel safe and allow you to feel at ease.
FAQs
Q. How can Telepsych help my parents?
Telepsych lets you see a doctor by phone or video. It can save travel and allow family members to join from different places.
Q. My parents seem sad. Is that normal?
Feeling sad is okay. But if it persists beyond two weeks or worsens, seek the services of a doctor.
