Counselling is now widely accepted as beneficial in supporting children, young people and adults as they navigate life’s challenges though older adults seem more reluctant, perhaps thinking it isn’t appropriate for them?
Yet, later life can bring a myriad of difficulties such as bereavement, chronic pain, loneliness, loss of identity etc. and therapy can offer support at this stage of life too.
As Bette Davis famously quoted “Old age sure ain’t for sissies “.
GPs sometimes refer patients for therapy as an alternative to medication. A recent opinion poll by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) showed 68% of older adults would be open to receiving therapy if referred and 87% of those who have attended would recommend counselling to others. These statistics show that therapy is beneficial in later life!
I’m hoping my blog will encourage more older adults to consider therapy (perhaps supported by their loved ones). Therapy is about making changes to improve lives and relationships, even if this is just seeing a situation from a different perspective or how we perceive ourselves.
As we get older the choices to make a change may be more limited, however there are always still choices and a therapist can support this process. Unhelpful ruminating and negative automatic thoughts can be explored to see if they are adversely impacting our lives.
Some clients may wish to explore past experiences and therapy can support with understanding, compassion and possibly reframing.
Telephone or online therapy can be an option for those who find travel difficult or need support to access services.
The notion than an older brain was unable to process new information with the same speed and clarity as a younger person has been discredited and therapists will always work at a pace to suit their client.
Older adults with milder memory changes can still benefit from counselling and adaptions can be made. It may be appropriate to have a family member or carer join the therapy session supporting clients in between sessions.
Retirement can bring financial difficulties and not everyone can afford private therapy, however there are some other options.
The Eaves offers an Affordable counselling service, providing support at a reduced cost for people who may be finding private therapy financially out of reach.
Some therapists working in private practice also offer concessions for seniors and some charities offers this too.
If this article has resonated with you, taking the first step to seek support can make a real difference. Our directory features qualified psychotherapists, counsellors, and psychologists who work with older adults on a wide range of issues, including bereavement, loneliness, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. Browse practitioner profiles to find a professional whose experience, approach, and availability best meet your needs.