Help for Seniors

Our bodies change as we age, and so do our minds. Studies show that seniors face an increased risk of mental challenges, including clinical depression and memory impairment. But there’s good news – in most cases, these conditions can be successfully treated and managed with specialized care. That’s the mission of the Senior Behavioral Health Center.

Symptoms of behavioral health problems associated with seniors may include:

• Anxiety and/or social withdrawal
• Agitation and/or significant behavioral disturbances
• Loss of interest in normal activities
• Memory impairment and confusion
• Disturbance of sleeping and eating patterns
• Unrealistic fears
• Suicide threats or attempts
• Hallucinations and abnormal thoughts

Common diagnoses include Dementia (ex. Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, Parkinson’s and Cardiovascular types), Depression, Anxiety, and other emotional difficulties due to the aging process.

Inpatient Services

As part of Coosa Valley Medical Center’s complete approach to care, the Senior Behavioral Health Center is a 20 – bed inpatient psychiatry program for individuals age 65 or older. Our short-stay treatment services focus on evaluating and stabilizing patient conditions.

Located within Coosa Valley Medical Center, the inpatient services at the Senior Behavioral Health Center can care for a variety of medical services in conjunction with a primary psychiatric diagnosis. The location permits easy access to neurological and other diagnostic procedures that help identify the cause of a patient’s difficulties.

Admissions

Admissions are accepted 24 hours a day. Referrals may be made by physicians, psychologists, social workers, mental health professionals, social service agencies, family members or friends. The decision regarding admission is made by a psychiatrist.

The Senior Behavioral Health Center features a team of experienced professionals who fully understand the unique nature of psychiatric and psychological disorders. Staff members include a psychiatrist, nurses, social workers, therapists and mental health technicians.

Our staff is available 24 hours a day. All information is completely confidential. For more information the Senior Behavioral Health Center at 256.401.4670.

Also get information on our “Circle of Care” support group.