Senior mental health
Mental health disorders, such as Alzheimer's, dementia and mood disorders, remain widespread in the senior community. Our counselors and physicians can help seniors suffering from memory loss, confusion or depression that arise from mental health problems.
Behavioral healthcare for seniors in Richmond, Virginia
Our geriatric psychiatrists are here to help you.
At Chippenham Hospital, we provide the behavioral health care that seniors need for a healthy, happy life. Our goal is to address your personal needs and empower you to manage your mental health so that you can live life to the fullest.
Expert advice, available 24/7
Free health-related advice is just a phone call away. Our licensed nurses will help you understand your symptoms, answer health-related questions, and navigate where to seek care.
Free health-related advice is just a phone call away. Our licensed nurses will help you understand your symptoms, answer health-related questions, and navigate where to seek care.
Senior emotional health conditions we treat
Using collaborative problem-solving techniques, we provide comprehensive treatment for the following mental health conditions and emotional struggles:
- Anger
- Anxiety
- Bipolar disorder
- Chronic mental illness
- Depression
- Grief and loss
Our senior mental health services
We believe that behavioral health treatment is most successful with a team approach. Our treatment team includes psychiatrists, nurses, care managers, activity therapists and dieticians.
Our senior mental health program
The Senior Transition Program at Tucker Pavilion offers inpatient psychiatric care to seniors with mental health concerns. Our doctors and therapists focus on safety and stabilization first, then create a unique treatment plan to meet personal emotional needs. Our care includes:
- Comprehensive assessment and evaluation
- Discharge planning
- Music therapy
- Pet therapies
- Recreational therapy
- Spirituality group
- Variety of groups throughout the day
If you are a senior adult or know a senior who may be in crisis, please call Chippenham Hospital's 24-hour behavioral health access line at 804-483-0053.
Qualifying criteria
Patients may be admitted to our program if they meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Exhibiting signs and symptoms that they are a threat to themselves or others
- Psychiatrically impaired to the point they require 24-hour care/monitoring
- Current judicial order (Temporary Detention Order)
- Emergency Custody Order (ECO)
Some of these criteria have specific legal requirements, so be sure to discuss these with the appropriate professional.
Warning signs of senior mental distress
Mental health concerns look different for seniors, so it is important to look out for distinct signs of emotional distress.
These are some of the signs to look out for if your loved one may be a threat to themselves or others:
- Delusions, hallucinations or other perceptual concerns
- Depressive symptoms such as crying, feelings of worthlessness, fearfulness, guilt or sadness
- Failing memory, confusion or inability to concentrate
- Inability or refusal to comply with health advice
- Increased or decreased activity level
- Increased withdrawal from others or isolation
- Neglect of personal or domestic hygiene
- Physical concerns such as appetite changes, incontinence, unsteady gait and severe fatigue
- Uncharacteristic behaviors such as cursing or striking out at caregivers
- Wandering, pacing, restlessness, disorientation or increased anxiety
These are some of the signs to look out for if your loved one may be a threat to themselves or others:
- Delusions, hallucinations or other perceptual concerns
- Depressive symptoms such as crying, feelings of worthlessness, fearfulness, guilt or sadness
- Failing memory, confusion or inability to concentrate
- Inability or refusal to comply with health advice
- Increased or decreased activity level
- Increased withdrawal from others or isolation
- Neglect of personal or domestic hygiene
- Physical concerns such as appetite changes, incontinence, unsteady gait and severe fatigue
- Uncharacteristic behaviors such as cursing or striking out at caregivers
- Wandering, pacing, restlessness, disorientation or increased anxiety