Aging and Geriatric Issues

Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you.I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you. – Isaiah 46:4

Growing older does not need to be disheartening. It is possible to age with grace and to do it well – with God’s help. The counselors at Seattle Christian Counseling offer compassion and guidance to those who are entering later seasons in life and may be battling with issues that accompany the aging process. We offer a safe environment for people of all ages to express their concerns and work through specific challenges. Ultimately, we seek to point you to the One who is with us through every season – Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today and forever (Hebrews 13:8).

What is Christian Geriatric Counseling?

Christian counseling for the elderly and aging seeks to meet people at their point of need and guide them through a season that may include tumultuous changes. We strive to make the changes as seamless as possible by focusing on the constant presence and promises of God in keeping with an eternal perspective. Whether you or your loved ones are feeling depressed, lonely, anxious or steeped in grief, the trained counselors at Seattle Christian Counseling are ready to come alongside you to instill and infuse a solid sense of hope.

Though many joys accompany the golden years, such as retirement and grandchildren, you might find yourself battling to adjust to this new phase of life. Christian geriatric counseling offers a broad range of support for those who struggle with issues related to the aging process.

Some common concerns include:

Depression

Sadly, depression is quite common among people over the age of 60. Sometimes having a confidante is a good and necessary first step toward climbing out of the dark rut in which many people get stuck. The skilled professionals at Seattle Christian Counseling have a wealth of experience dealing with depression and have seen remarkable results by the grace of God and with the help of the Holy Spirit. If you or a loved one is feeling chronically low, contact a depression counselor today.

Anxiety

Anxiety can be precipitated by any number of triggers. The many changes that accompany growing older can certainly be a primary cause for anxiety among the senior population. At Seattle Christian Counseling, we offer Christian anxiety counseling for all age groups. During counseling sessions, we seek to find the root of the issue and provide people with tools to better manage their condition and ultimately live with a peaceful heart through faith in Christ.

Loneliness

The feeling of loneliness is another common occurrence for seniors. Perhaps physical changes have limited their ability to be as active as they used to be or maybe living conditions have been altered resulting in fewer neighbors or relatives in the home. Having an opportunity to talk through these genuine emotions can provide some relief. Partnered with the results-based therapy methods we offer at Seattle Christian Counseling as well as our faith-based approach, you or your loved one can develop a God-honoring perspective that will lift your spirits as you dwell on the goodness of God.

Loss of Independence

To lose one’s independence after decades of established habits and routines is sure to rock anyone’s core. Perhaps you or your loved one is no longer able to drive or cook your own meals. Rather than ride the unpredictable waves that swell from such a change, make the transition smoother by seeking assistance from one of the experienced counselors at Seattle Christian Counseling.

Grief

Perhaps you or your relative have endured the recent loss of a loved one. Grief comes in many forms and there is no set formula for overcoming it all together. Or maybe you haven’t been affected by a death, but are familiar with grief because of many other losses you’ve experienced, such as the loss of a job, position, privilege or ability. No matter the loss, it can make a significant difference to have a compassionate listening ear as you process your emotions and begin to heal. Consider reaching out to a grief counselor today.

Age Discrimination

In an age where the young try to reign over the old, age discrimination is a sad reality. Health Journal published a survey of adults over 60 and the results are heartbreaking:

• 67% believed that age discrimination is a real problem.
• 37% experienced age discrimination in the last year.
• 43% were afraid of violence.
• 50% felt they were not treated with respect.

Christian geriatric counseling offers support for those who fear or experience:

• Aging workforce issues.
• Disrespect from youths.
• Intimidation, emotional abuse or manipulation through violence or threats.

At Seattle Christian Counseling, we believe that older adults have much to offer. They provide us with wisdom, advice and love. We aim to repay the kindness and acknowledge senior strengths and gifts through compassionate Christian geriatric counseling.

Age-Related Health Issues

Another challenge that accompanies aging involves dealing with the natural effects that time has on the body. Sometimes that means living with chronic or serious health issues that impede your mobility, make you feel fragile or limit your ability to enjoy activities you love.

Consider this stirring promise from God as you face your later years:

Even to your old age, I will be the same And even to your graying years I will bear you! I have done it and I will carry you; And I will bear you and I will deliver you. – Isaiah 46:4

Christian geriatric counseling can help you manage issues such as:

• Geriatric health concerns.
• Increased need for relying on others for care.
• Expressing and processing emotions related to declining health.
• Challenges involving medical care.

Growing old might mean coming to terms with various changes in your life, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the blessings God has given you. With Christian geriatric counseling, you can find support through the hard times so you can live fully on the good days.

Cognitive-Mental Health Challenges

Do you sometimes feel forgetful? For many older adults, that is perfectly normal. As we age, it is natural to experience a general decline in cognitive function. However, there are times when symptoms like memory loss indicate a more serious problem such as Alzheimer’s disease. Impaired cognitive function might also result in depression, anxiety and paranoia. In terms of general mental health, approximately 15% of adults over age 60 have a mental health condition.

Christian geriatric counseling can help with mental health concerns including:

• Anxiety
• Sleep problems
• Depression
• Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia
• Alcohol and substance abuse

Dealing with emotional and mental health matters in the elderly sometimes requires a different approach that considers the emotional, cognitive and health-related issues of aging and how they often intertwine. Our team at Seattle Christian Counseling includes those who specialize in geriatric psychology and Christian geriatric counseling. Give us a call today to add someone to your support team.

God created us with a need for connection with others. As we get older, our relationships evolve and so do our relational needs. Maybe you’re divorced or lost your spouse and want to start dating again. Perhaps you experience strain within your current relationships with family and loved ones. Whatever you face, God offers the guidance you need and we are here to work with Christ to help you build meaningful relationships.

Christian geriatric counseling can help you tackle issues of:

• Marriage and couple’s issues.
• Family conflict.
• Dating and new relationships.
• Self-esteem challenges.

In your elder years, we are honored to walk with you on your journey of personal fulfillment while helping you mend broken relationships or start a new relationship journey. Whatever your needs might be, you have support through Christian geriatric counseling.

Death and Dying

As Christians, we have hope because Jesus conquered death. Through His resurrection, we can cling to the anchor hope found in the promise of eternal life with Him.However, even with faith in life eternal through Christ, the reality of facing your own mortality can be difficult. Many emotions are stirred and other matters must be considered. Knowing you’ll leave those you love behind or facing loss of your peers can be emotionally painful and sometimes it’s hard to keep faith when dealing with these matters.

Whether dealing with loss or fear of mortality, Christian counseling can point you to Christ who gives us strength.

Christian geriatric counseling can help you deal with:

• Fear of death and dying.
• Grief and loss.
• Concerns regarding care of loved ones after you’re gone.

No one can tell you how you should feel when facing the end of your life or the loss of a loved one. At Seattle Christian Counseling, we are here to help you process your emotions with the hope of helping you find peace, acceptance and joy through Christ.

The King will reply, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40

As Christians, we have a God-given responsibility to our family. When the elder members of our family fall ill, we do all we can to care for them. At Seattle Christian Counseling, we know how hard it can be to care for those who are sick, disabled or suffer from mental illness. Doing what’s right isn’t always easy and sometimes it means making difficult decisions regarding the well-being of those you love.

We can provide you with support for:

• Caring for family members with Alzheimer’s and other cognitive illnesses.
• Emotions related to the declining health of your loved ones.
• Facing difficult decisions regarding end-of-life care.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by emotions and the difficulties of caring for your elderly family members, Christian geriatric counseling offers support and a safe place for expressing your feelings and concerns.

Find support throughout the aging process. Call Seattle Christian Counseling today at 206-388-3929 or browse through our christian directory.