Counselling

Everyone encounters problems in everyday life and for some people the problems can become too much to deal with on their own.

Older people’s reactions to events and situations are no different to that of the rest of the population and their capacity to cope will vary from person to person.

Many older people feel awkward discussing their problems and concerns with friends or members of their family and so an older person may benefit from talking to a trained and experienced Counsellor.

There are a number of issues, which many older people encounter:

Bereavement
Many older people have been with their spouse or partner for a considerable amount of time and it is likely that each partner will have a strong attachment to the other. When a spouse dies it is often difficult for the widow/widower to adjust. Also as we get older the number of deaths of close friends and family members increases and so older people can often experience an overload of grief.
Other losses
As well as bereavement, there are a number of other losses that older people can experience. These include:
- Loss of independence
- Loss of health
- Loss of mobility
- Loss of family home

Depression
Many older people can experience feelings of isolation. They can feel “cut off” from society and think that they are completely alone.
Anxiety
Older people often have concerns regarding their own health and well-being. They may also become anxious about practical and financial issues. Many older people worry about how they will cope on a day-to-day basis.

Loneliness
Many older people can experience intense feelings of loneliness. This can happen particularly when an older person remains living in their own home after the death of a spouse.
Fears about the future
Some older people have fears and anxieties about their future and whether or not they can remain living independently in their own homes.
Awareness of own mortality
Often when older people have experienced the loss of a spouse, friends and family, they have a greater sense of their own mortality.

Benefits of Counselling

Gives individuals the opportunity to share past and present problems in a confidential and supportive environment
Can assist in reducing stress
Assists older people in coming to terms with their losses
Helps people adjust to a new situation
Often gives people a greater sense of acceptance so they can have a better quality of life
Gives people the opportunity to think afresh and explore ways of coping more effectively

How to Find a Counsellor

There are a number of ways in which an older person can contact a Counsellor:

GP
Many GP surgeries provide a counselling service, although there is often a waiting list.
Age Concern
Many branches of Age Concern offer a free counseling service to older people. This service may be particularly beneficial to those who are housebound, as often the Counsellors will visit the older person in their own home.
British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Members of this Association abide by a Code of Practice, which establishes and maintains standards. The BACP is able to send information about Counsellors in a chosen area of the country.

If you require further assistance or would like to speak to the Independent Care Adviser this site recommends please call 0800 137 669 or complete the e-mail enquiry form.