The senior program at Excel Center Arlington provides older adults with a comfortable setting for treatment of problems that are unique to this population.

Problems Faced by Older Adults

Too often, older adults with serious psychiatric conditions are dismissed as untreatable. From age-related anxiety and depression to long-standing psychiatric disorders, older adults can suffer from a wide range of psychiatric illnesses and conditions. These are often made worse by chronic pain, heart disease, diabetes, stroke or other medical disorders associated with aging.

Many difficult life events occur for the elderly at this stage in their lives. These include dealing with retirement, death of a loved one, physical illness and limited sources of income. For these people, psychiatric problems may even result from these life events or from side effects of medications.

Cognitive impairments, such as inability to use appropriate judgment, may also occur. This may be due to aging or overuse of alcohol or drugs. The Excel Center offers specialized treatment for alcohol and substance abuse, although detoxification may require an initial inpatient stay.

Treatment Team

The senior program at the Excel Center allows older adults a comfortable setting to process issues particularly relevant to this population. Our therapists have received training that uniquely equips them to work with senior adults.

Our experienced interdisciplinary team led by our medical director is responsible for delivering treatment on a day-to-day basis. This team includes psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, licensed social workers, and mental health workers who are respectful, supportive and compassionate.

Who Is Appropriate For Admission?

Any individual who has potential for responding to and benefiting from treatment will be admitted. In addition, the patient must be willing to be an active participant in treatment and must not pose a risk to his/her own welfare or the welfare of others.

Individuals who can no longer manage the activities of daily living due to emotional or behavioral changes are candidates for assessment. Often these adults appear depressed, confused or disoriented, fearful, sad, or withdrawn. Their health and safety may also be threatened by non-compliance with a prescribed medication regime.