Why Mental Wellness Matters for Seniors & Caregivers - WelbeHealth

Why Mental Wellness Matters for Seniors & Caregivers 

Thank you to everyone who joined our WelbeHealth Wellness Webinar: Mental Wellness Matters. We were thrilled to welcome so many seniors, caregivers, and community partners for this important conversation. 

If you attended, you’ll receive a link to replay the full webinar in your email. For those who couldn’t make it, the full replay will be shared publicly soon. In the meantime, here’s a quick recap with some of the key takeaways, tips, and resources. 

Why Mental Wellness Matters 

Dr. Ish Bhalla, Head of Behavioral Health at WelbeHealth, reminded us why mental health is just as important as physical health: 

• Mind and body are connected; you can’t have one without the other. 

• Mental health concerns are common: 1 in 5 older adults experience issues like anxiety, depression, or memory challenges each year. 

• Treatment works: from talk therapy and support groups to medical care, no one needs to suffer in silence. 

Recognizing the Signs 

Some changes with age are normal. Others may signal that it’s time to seek help. Warning signs include: 

• Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy 

• Withdrawing from hobbies or social activities 

• Increased irritability, sadness, or hopelessness 

• Confusion in familiar places 

• Talking about harming oneself or others (always take this seriously and get help immediately) 

Tips for Caregivers 

Chris Siekierka, our Senior Director of Social Work, emphasized that caregivers are not alone. She offered these reminders: 

• Ask about feelings, not just physical health 

• Encourage social interaction and meaningful conversation 

• Take breaks by connecting loved ones to day centers or support groups 

• Care for yourself, too: “you can’t pour from an empty cup” 

Everyday Wellness for Seniors 

Our panel shared simple ways to support mental wellness every day: 

• Stay connected with family, friends, and your community 

• Keep your mind active with puzzles, reading, or learning something new 

• Practice gratitude, write down three things you’re thankful for each day 

• Breathe and move, gentle exercise and deep breathing help ease stress 

How to Get Help 

Support is available if you or a loved one needs it: 

• Call 988 for immediate mental health crisis support 

• Talk to your doctor or a social worker for guidance 

• California Department of Aging – (800) 510-2020 

• Services: Aging & Disability Resources, Alzheimer’s/Dementia Support, Caregiver Services, MSSP 

• Services: Personalized Care Coordination, Caregiver & Memory Support, Emotional Connection 

• Institute on Aging – (888) 670-1360 

• Explore more resources: 
  • Institute on Aging
  • Administration on Aging (HHS)
  • Health in Aging (American Geriatrics Society)
  • National Council on Aging (NCOA)
  • NIMH – Older Adults and Mental Health
  • WHO – Mental Health of Older Adults

• Learn about PACE: The WelbeHealth PACE Program provides coordinated medical, social, and behavioral health care to help seniors live independently at home. 

Looking Ahead 

This webinar was just the start. A full replay will be posted soon, along with slides and resources on our WelbeHealth Resource Page. There, you’ll also find: 

• Information will include:

• PACE overview https://welbehealth.com/guide/

• 2-minute PACE explainer video

Additional Questions or Need to Contact Us: marketing@welbehealth.com

💜 At WellbeHealth, we believe caring for your mind is just as important as caring for your body to help you stay healthy and independent.