Aging and Geriatric Issues

At Tacoma Christian Counseling, we are dedicated to providing exceptional, faith-based counseling for people of all ages and backgrounds. Although there are issues that older adults face that are unique, for the most part the difference comes with the different expectations, experiences, and circumstances surrounding those with more maturity. Christian geriatric counseling offers a variety of approaches depending on your needs – so much so that there are too many to list here. In general, the most common types of counseling for issues of aging include:

• Individual Counseling – Individual Christian counseling helps you with personal problems related to relationships, personal growth, spiritual development, and virtually any issue that impedes your quality of life.
• Counseling for Depression and Anxiety – Anxiety and depression are very common among older adults. Sadly, the rate of suicide is greatest for those over 60, largely due to lack of support for age-related issues. We offer support and tools for managing strong, negative emotions so you can live a life of peace and enjoyment.
• Family Counseling – When dealing with family conflict, issues of medical dependency, age-related health issues, or death and dying, family counseling can be very helpful.

Christian geriatric counseling encourages healthy, active aging. Whatever problems you face, our goal is to help you continue to grow in Christ and live to the fullest.

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

Age Discrimination

As you get older, those around you treat you with a kind of reverence. They respect your wisdom, experience, and look to you for guidance – except when they don’t. Unfortunately, our culture doesn’t always give due credit and respect towards the elder members of our society. The young think they know it all, and often view your ways, values, and knowledge as “old fashioned” or “outdated.”

What does Christ Jesus say about respecting the elderly?

Stand up in the presence of the elderly, and show respect for the aged. Fear your God. I am the LORD. – Leviticus 19:32

In an age where the young try to reign over the old, it’s understandable that you would feel the effects of age discrimination. 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 youth.
• Intimidation, emotional abuse, or manipulation through violence or threats.

At Tacoma Christian Counseling, we believe that older adults have much to offer us. They provide us with wisdom, guidance, and love. We aim to do the same for those who struggle with issues of aging with compassionate Christian geriatric counseling.

Age-Related Health Issues

One of the greatest challenges that comes with aging involves dealing with natural effects 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.

Christ offers you support as you face the challenges of aging:

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 issues.
• Increased need for relying on others for care.
• Expressing and processing emotions related to declining health.
• Issues 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 during the good times.

Cognitive-Mental Health Concerns

Do you sometimes feel forgetful? For many older adults, that is perfectly normal. As we age, it’s natural to experience a general decline in cognitive function. However, there are times when things like memory loss indicate a more serious problem like Alzheimer’s disease. Impaired cognitive function might also result in depression, anxiety, and paranoia. In terms of general mental health, approximately 15% of adults¹ over age 60 have a mental health condition.

¹http://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/issues/aging

Christ offers peace and support for the afflicted who seek him:

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-7

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 Tacoma Christian Counseling includes those who specialize in geriatric psychology and Christian geriatric counseling.

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

God created mates for many creatures in this world. How much more will He do for you?

The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”  – Genesis 2:18

Christian geriatric counseling can help you tackle issues of:

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

There is something beautiful about the old and the wise. At Tacoma Christian Counseling, we embrace what is of true value to God – things that often come with living a long life in Christ. 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 journey of exciting new loves and friendships. Whatever your needs might be, you have support through Christian geriatric counseling.

Death and Dying

Christ warns us not to fear those who harm the flesh, but rather the second, everlasting death.

With that goes the promise of God which is immortality through freedom from sin through our savior Jesus Christ. Even with faith in life eternal through Christ, facing your mortality can be difficult. There are many emotions and other matters one must face. 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, Christ gives us strength.

When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. – 1 Corinthians 15: 54-57

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 loss of a loved one. At Tacoma Christian Counseling, we are here to help you process your emotions with the hopes of helping you find peace, acceptance, and joy through Christ.

Counseling for Caretakers of Elderly Family Members

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. Sometimes that can be very challenging. Christian geriatric counseling can provide you with support, understanding, and strength.

What does Christ say about caring for our elderly?

But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever. – 1 Timothy 5:8

At Tacoma 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 wellbeing 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.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by emotions and the difficulties of caring for your elderly family members? Christian geriatric counseling can help you by offering support and a safe place for expressing your feelings and concerns.

Do you provide testing and treatment for Alzheimer’s?

Tacoma Christian Counseling offers psychological testing services that can help determine whether you or a loved one might have Alzheimer’s disease. We also offer Christian counseling to help you and your loved ones adjust to life changes related to Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Do you accept Medicare?

We are out of network for Medicare, but we are happy to work with you regarding payment options. If you have any questions about insurance or paying for treatment, give us call.

Are there any groups available for the elderly or will there be in the future?

Tacoma Christian Counseling offers a variety of counseling groups. Visit our Christian group counseling page for a list of groups currently available. If you wish to express interest in having a group formed, feel free to contact us.

My family wants to put me away somewhere. Can you help me with that?

We are here to help everyone who struggles with adjusting to changes in life. We understand how difficult these kinds of transitions can be, and we are happy to help you in any way we can.

My senior is becoming increasingly difficult and I’m confused. Should I seek help or should he?

If your elderly loved one is showing signs of increased confusion or combativeness, it’s important to get help. These signs might point to conditions such as Alzheimer’s. We are also happy to provide you with support so that you can continue to care for your loved ones with understanding.

If you or a loved one is struggling with issues of aging, contact us today.

At Tacoma Christian Counseling, we strive to help you and those you love live life to the fullest. If you’re interested in Christian geriatric counseling, please give us a call at (253) 777-1997. or contact Tacoma Christian Counseling online.