Cary, Illinois: Anxiety Disorders in Long Term Care: The Role of Psychotherapy

the patients care may be managed collaboratively by a psychologist and physician. It is important for patients to realize that there are side effects to any drugs, which must be monitored closely by the facility staff.

How can a psychologist help someone suffering from an anxiety disorder?

Psychologists are highly qualified to diagnose and treat anxiety disorders. Nursing home administrators, desirous of helping residents suffering from these disorders, should seek a provider who is competent in cognitive and behavioral therapies.

Family and group psychotherapy offer helpful approaches to treatment for patients with anxiety disorders.

How long does psychological treatment take?

Long term care management professionals need to be aware that treatments for anxiety disorders do not work instantly. The resident should be comfortable from the outset with the treatment being proposed and with the psychologist with whom he or she is working.

The patients cooperation is crucial, and there must be a strong sense that the patient and psychologist are collaborating as a team to reduce the anxiety.

No one plan works well for all elderly patients. Treatment needs to be tailored to the needs of the elderly patient and to the type of disorder from which she suffers.

The psychologist and aged patient should work together to assess whether a treatment plan seems to be on track. Adjustments to the plan sometimes are necessary, since patients respond differently to different treatments.

However, many residents will begin to improve noticeably within eight to ten sessions, especially those who carefully follow the outlined treatment plan.

There is no question that the various kinds of anxiety disorders can severely impair a geriatric patients functioning with family and in the facility. Long term care management professionals should realize that the prospects for long-term recovery for most residents who receive appropriate professional help are very good.

Those who suffer from anxiety disorders can work with the psychologist to help them regain control of their feelings and thoughts—and their lives.

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