Supporting Mental Health in Residential Aged Care: Practical Tips for Families

Taking care of mental health is just as important as caring for physical health. Significant life changes — such as moving into residential aged care — can impact emotional wellbeing.

If you notice changes in someone you love, support is available.

Signs to look out for:

• Feeling sad, worried, or lonely most days

• Changes in sleep or appetite

• Losing interest in activities they usually enjoy

• Feeling angry, hopeless, or overwhelmed
  

As family members, it can be difficult to see our loved ones facing challenges. While we cannot remove every difficulty, there are practical ways we can offer meaningful support.

Practical Ways to Support Your Loved One

Support connection and belonging Encourage them to maintain existing relationships and build new ones within their community.

Assist with technology Helping them use phones, tablets, or video calls can make staying connected with family and friends much easier.

Encourage gentle movement Exercise looks different for everyone. Even five minutes of movement each day can improve mood and energy.

Promote time outdoors Daily fresh air and natural light can have a powerful effect on wellbeing.

Invite storytelling Ask about their favourite holiday, proudest moment, or a cherished childhood memory. Sharing stories reinforces identity and connection.

Create a personalised music playlist Music can spark joy, calm anxiety, and bring back meaningful memories.

Fill their room with things they love  Bring their favourite pillows, memorabilia, photos, chair and bedspread to make it feel more like home. Memories spark joy and bring comfort.

A Message to Remember

No matter your age:You are seen.You are heard.You are still growing.And above all — you still matter.

You are never too old to seek support for your mental health. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, GP, or mental health professional can make a meaningful difference.

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At The Healthy Communities Foundation Australia, we know that supporting residents’ wellbeing requires more than just physical care. Our My Care hybrid residential aged care service delivers a patient-centred model of care via face-to-face and virtual clinics, helping residential aged care facilities provide timely, accessible support for residents and reduce unnesecarry hospital transfers. By integrating flexible clinical care with a holistic approach, My Care helps facilities strengthen resident wellbeing while supporting families and care teams.

If your organisation is:

• Unable to source local GPs or needing support for local GP's

• Looking to provide temporary relief for local GP's
  

Email Brenda Schloss, Executive GM Aged and Acute Care: bschloss@thcfa.org.au or visit our Aged Care page for more information