Effective care planning can ensure people receive long-term, comprehensive care as they get older or become incapacitated.
However, there are situations in which the support a person needs is immediate and acute. Under these circumstances, crisis intervention measures can be essential.
What is crisis intervention?
Crisis intervention refers to swift actions that help seniors address mental, physical or financial crises. The exact approaches will depend on the type of crisis and the parties responding.
The services might include:
- Talk therapy
- Relocation
- Medication
- Mental health check-ins
- Connecting a person to support or treatment programs
These services are crucial for individuals over 60 who are being mistreated or have no one to talk to. They can prevent suicide, combat depression and help to improve a person’s quality of life.
There are many different programs and parties trained in elderly crisis interventions, including:
- Elderly care planning attorneys
- Emergency responders
- Services like the Friendship Line
- Nursing facility staff
Identifying these resources before they are necessary could save your life or that of your loved one.
When is crisis intervention necessary?
Some of the events that might warrant immediate attention include:
- Suspicions of physical or sexual abuse
- Financial abuse
- Suicidal ideations
- A loss or diagnosis triggering extreme grief
- Changes in care that result in isolation or loneliness
- Mental health emergencies
In these cases, a person’s health and safety can be on the line. Ensuring they receive qualified, compassionate attention right away can make the difference between life and death.
Can you plan for a crisis?
No one wants to be in crisis, but it can and does happen, especially when someone is vulnerable and separated from family. Thus, if you or your loved one are concerned about this situation, you can prepare yourselves accordingly.
Measures like frequent check-ins with someone can identify signs of a bad situation early on. And individuals making an estate plan can identify trusted advocates to act on their behalf if necessary. Further, loved ones can keep a list of emergency contacts, including crisis intervention parties, easily accessible.
Responding to an emergency involving a vulnerable adult is vital in protecting someone who may not be capable of protecting themselves. This information can help people make a plan and act swiftly if such a scenario arises.