Seniors

I’m worried I might be viewed as weak if I go to counseling.

Senior men may be worried about seeking counseling being viewed as a weakness due to cultural and societal norms that place a high value on self-reliance, independence, and stoicism. Seeking help for mental health concerns may be seen as a sign of weakness, vulnerability, or an inability to handle problems on their own. Senior men may also have grown up in a time when mental health was not well understood, and seeking help for mental health concerns was stigmatized or even taboo. This can lead to feelings of shame or embarrassment about seeking help and make it harder for senior men to reach out for support. Additionally, senior men may have concerns about the cost of counseling, access to transportation, or fear of being stigmatized or discriminated against based on their age, gender, or other factors.

Growing up, counseling was frowned upon, why should I go?

Senior men may worry about stigma regarding counseling for several reasons. Firstly, they may believe that seeking help for mental health issues is a sign of weakness or that it goes against traditional masculine values of self-reliance and independence. Secondly, they may fear being labeled as "crazy" or "unstable" by family, friends, or their community. Lastly, they may be concerned that seeking counseling may harm their reputation or standing in their workplace or other social settings. These fears can lead to feelings of shame or embarrassment, making it difficult for senior men to seek the help they need.

I don’t know much about counseling, will it help?

Seniors may not understand mental health due to a lack of education and awareness about mental health conditions, including symptoms and treatment options. There may be a generational stigma around mental health and seeking help for mental health issues, which can make it difficult for seniors to understand the importance of seeking counseling. Additionally, seniors may be more likely to attribute mental health symptoms to physical health problems or simply "getting old," rather than recognizing them as treatable mental health conditions. Finally, there may be a lack of access to mental health resources for seniors, particularly those who are isolated or live in rural areas.

I am currently on Medicare, can I afford counseling?

Seniors who are on Medicare may have some coverage for mental health services. Medicare Part B covers outpatient mental health services, including individual and group therapy, as well as some diagnostic tests, such as psychological evaluations. Medicare Part B typically covers 80% of the approved cost for mental health services, and the individual is responsible for the remaining 20%. Seniors may also have access to counseling services through community health centers, mental health clinics, or other low-cost or sliding-scale fee options. Additionally, some nonprofit organizations may offer free or low-cost counseling services for seniors. It may be helpful to speak with a Medicare representative or a mental health provider who accepts Medicare to learn more about specific coverage options.

I am unable to drive anymore, how can I get to counseling?

Seniors who are unable to drive may face challenges in accessing counseling services. However, there are still options available to them. Many counseling services now offer teletherapy, which allows seniors to receive counseling sessions from the comfort of their own homes using videoconferencing technology. Additionally, some counseling services may offer transportation assistance for seniors who cannot drive or arrange for a mobile counselor to come to their homes. Family members or caregivers may also be able to assist seniors in getting to counseling appointments. It is important for seniors to discuss transportation concerns with their counselor or counseling service in order to find a solution that works for them.