Compassionate Psychiatric Stabilization and Support for Older Adults
Aging brings wisdom, experience, and perspective—but it can also come with emotional, physical, and cognitive challenges. At Ocean View Psychiatric Health Facility, we support older adults through specialized geriatric psychiatry services designed to stabilize symptoms, improve safety, and promote quality of life. We recognize the unique needs of seniors and offer a structured, compassionate setting where healing can begin.
Understanding the Connection Between Aging, Stress, and Mental Health
Older adults often experience stress in ways that directly affect their physical and emotional health. Chronic stress may contribute to:
- Headaches, muscle tension, or chronic pain
- Cardiovascular issues (e.g., high blood pressure, heart disease)
- Digestive problems or nausea
- Breathing difficulties, including asthma
- Sleep disturbance or fatigue
- Increased inflammation and immune system decline
- Worsening of chronic conditions like arthritis or diabetes
Common life stressors for seniors include:
- Caregiving responsibilities
- Grief and loss
- Loneliness or isolation
- Chronic illness or disability
- Retirement or housing transitions
- Financial strain
These stressors can lead to or worsen mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Early psychiatric support can significantly improve outcomes in older adults. Psychoeducation and psychiatric stabilization may reduce depressive symptoms by up to 25% within the first year. Timely, appropriate care allows older adults to regain control and prevent further decline.
Ocean View’s Approach to Geriatric Psychiatry
Our psychiatric health facility is designed to be accessible and age-friendly, offering:
- ADA-compliant spaces for patients using wheelchairs or walkers
- Treatment plans tailored to cognitive and physical functioning
- Group therapy based on acuity and cognitive compatibility
- A supportive, respectful environment where older adults feel safe and understood
What to Expect: Assessment, Stabilization & Support
Every senior admitted to Ocean View receives a comprehensive geriatric assessment that considers physical, emotional, cognitive, and medication-related needs. Based on this evaluation, our team develops a treatment plan focused on:
- Medication stabilization and psychiatric oversight
- Symptom reduction and safety planning
- Therapeutic recreation and group engagement
- One-on-one support from social workers and psychiatrists
- A clear discharge plan and follow-up coordination
Our medical team works closely with referring providers and caregivers when applicable, ensuring continuity of care.
Levels of Care for Older Adults
Our geriatric psychiatry services include multiple levels of care, tailored to the needs of older adults experiencing acute psychiatric symptoms or chronic emotional stress.
Intensive Inpatient Program
Designed for seniors experiencing acute symptoms. This level of care includes:
- 24/7 medical oversight
- Private and shared rooms
- Daily psychiatric oversight and medication stabilization
- 6 Groups Daily
- Psychoeducation with social workers
- Recreational therapy led by a certified therapist (art, music, games)
- Coping skills and emotional regulation
- Patients are grouped by how severe their condition is, not by their age or specific diagnosis
- Typical length of stay: 7–10 days (may vary)
- Transportation coordination available
- Medication Stabilization
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
For seniors who no longer need inpatient stabilization but still benefit from daily structure and oversight.
- 5 days/week (10:00am–2:30pm)
- 4 engaging group sessions per day
- Psychoeducational and life skill-focused curriculum
- Medication management and psychiatric support
- Catered lunch and snacks
- Step-down from inpatient
- Transportation available
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
For those transitioning to greater independence but still needing support.
- 2–4 days/week (10:00am–2:30pm)
- Focused on coping skills, community reintegration, and medication compliance
- Medication management and support
- Catered lunch and snacks
- Transportation services available
Take the First Step Toward Healing.
Our Team is ready to help you stabilize and heal.
Specialized Support for Cognitive and Emotional Challenges
Depression in Older Adults
Older adults often experience depression due to loss, isolation, or physical decline. Common signs include:
- Loss of interest or energy
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
- Sleep and appetite changes
- Physical complaints without a clear cause
- Irritability or agitation
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Memory Care and Cognitive Decline
We support patients experiencing symptoms of dementia or Alzheimer’s through:
- Medication stabilization to reduce behavioral and cognitive symptoms
- Environmental structure and emotional reassurance
- Group placement based on cognitive functioning
Safe Medication Management for Older Adults
Our psychiatrists and medical team are experienced in prescribing medications for older adults, considering:
- Medication history and potential interactions
- Symptom response and side effects
- Daily monitoring and dosage adjustments as needed
- Coordination with outside providers and caregivers
Improving Quality of Life in Later Years
Mental wellness is essential at every age. At Ocean View, we support seniors in:
- Identifying triggers and stress responses
- Building new coping skills
- Re-establishing routines
- Reconnecting with meaning and community
- Preparing for a supported transition back home or to outpatient care
Begin Your Journey to Mental Wellness
If you or a loved one is struggling with a psychiatric concern in later life, Ocean View offers geriatric psychiatry services designed for stabilization, safety, and healing. Call our admissions team now at (844) 562-1212