May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national observance dedicated to highlighting the importance of mental well-being across the lifespan. At Flagship Health, we are using this opportunity to shine a light on an often-overlooked group: older adults and senior veterans. As a healthcare organization deeply committed to those who have served and to the aging population, we recognize that mental health is essential to aging with dignity, purpose, and quality of life.

The Silent Crisis: Why Mental Health in Older Adults Matters

While mental health challenges can affect anyone, older adults—particularly senior veterans—face distinct psychological and emotional hurdles. From chronic illness and mobility issues to loss, grief, and loneliness, the mental health needs of this population are both pressing and often under-recognized. 

Key Statistics

Despite the data, many older adults don’t seek help due to stigma, generational beliefs, or a lack of awareness about treatment options. That’s why starting the conversation matters—now more than ever.

Unique Mental Health Challenges Faced by Seniors and Senior Veterans

Mental health in older adults is complex and multifaceted, particularly for those who have served in the military. Here are some of the primary challenges they face:

1. Loss and Grief

The later stages of life often come with the loss of loved ones, close friends, or a long-time spouse. For many, these cumulative losses can lead to persistent sadness and eventually clinical depression if left unaddressed.

2. Social Isolation and Loneliness

According to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, 43% of adults aged 60 and older feel lonely, and nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are socially isolated. Senior veterans, especially those who live alone, are at an even greater risk.

3. Chronic Illness and Pain

Chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease are not just physically taxing—they’re emotionally draining. Studies show that older adults with chronic illness are more likely to experience depression than their healthier peers.

4. Cognitive Decline and Dementia

Conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia can cause anxiety, disorientation, and mood swings, increasing psychological distress for both the individual and their caregivers.

5. Stigma and Generational Mindsets

Many seniors, especially veterans, come from a generation where mental health was either misunderstood or simply not discussed. They may feel embarrassed or weak for seeking help, despite the fact that mental health is a medical issue, not a moral failing.

Practical Strategies to Support Senior Mental Health—For Seniors and Their Support Networks

Whether you are a senior looking to support your own mental well-being or a caregiver, family member, or healthcare provider, there are numerous steps you can take to make mental health a daily priority. Everyone has a role to play in fostering wellness.

1. Stay Socially Connected

▶️ For seniors: Try to maintain regular social contact with friends, family, or community groups—even if it's virtual. Look into local events, senior centers, or veterans’ organizations for opportunities to connect. Flagship Health hosts weekly events for seniors, and we warmly welcome all older adults and their families to join us—whether or not they receive care from us.

▶️ For caregivers: Help facilitate weekly calls or visits and encourage participation in social or spiritual groups that the senior enjoys.

2. Keep Moving

Physical activity is a natural mood booster.

▶️ For seniors: Consider low-impact options like daily walks, yoga, or even dancing to music at home. Movement helps improve sleep, reduce anxiety, and increase energy.

▶️ For caregivers: Join your loved one in physical activity when possible—it’s a great way to bond and support their well-being.

3. Maintain a Consistent Sleep Routine

Sleep and mental health are closely connected.

Tips:

  • Stick to a regular bedtime and wake-up time.
  • Avoid caffeine late in the day.
  • Limit screen use and try calming bedtime routines like reading or listening to soft music.

👉🏾Read our guide for seniors on Building Better Sleep Hygiene.

4. Find Purpose and Joy in Daily Life

Having something to look forward to can make a world of difference.

▶️ For seniors: Hobbies like gardening, crafts, writing, or volunteering can restore a sense of purpose. Many senior veterans also find meaning in mentoring or community service.

▶️ For caregivers: Encourage your loved one to revisit activities they once enjoyed or try something new that fits their abilities.

5. Use Technology to Stay Engaged

Digital tools can offer both connection and stimulation.

▶️ For seniors: Learn to use video call apps, explore online classes, or join virtual book clubs or veterans’ forums.

▶️ For caregivers: Offer simple tech tutorials or set up devices with bookmarks to relevant websites and apps.

6. Regular Mental Health Check-Ins

Everyone should make mental health part of routine healthcare.

How Flagship Health Supports Senior Mental Wellness

At Flagship Health, our mission is rooted in serving seniors and senior veterans with dignity, respect, and compassion. We understand that addressing mental health is essential to whole-person care.

What We Offer:

  • Integrated behavioral health services tailored for seniors and veterans.
  • Trauma-informed care for those with military service backgrounds, including PTSD support.
  • Wellness visits that screen for mental, cognitive, and emotional health indicators.
  • Care coordination between medical, behavioral, and community support providers.

Our goal is to create a healthcare environment where seniors feel safe, heard, and empowered to live their fullest lives.

When to Seek Professional Help

Recognizing when you or a loved one might need additional support is critical. Here are some signs to look out for:

  • Persistent sadness, worry, or hopelessness
  • Withdrawal from activities or relationships
  • Trouble sleeping or eating
  • Thoughts of self-harm or expressing feelings of worthlessness
  • Increased confusion or agitation

If you notice any of these signs, please don’t wait. Talk to a healthcare provider or reach out to a mental health professional.

Let’s End the Stigma—Together

Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet many older adults still hesitate to seek help. Let’s change that narrative by:

  • Encouraging open dialogue around emotions and experiences.
  • Reassuring seniors that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
  • Sharing stories of healing and resilience among older adults and veterans.

Every conversation helps reduce stigma and build a culture of care.

A Shared Commitment to Aging Well

As we honor Mental Health Awareness Month, we reaffirm our commitment to the mental wellness of the people we serve. Older adults and senior veterans deserve more than longevity—they deserve to thrive emotionally, socially, and mentally.

Whether you’re walking through your own aging journey or walking alongside someone else, know this: you are not alone, and support is always available.

Helpful Resources