It’s Not “Just Aging”: The Crucial Role of Family Empathy in Elder Mental Health

By Dr Arati Bhatt ,SereinMind

As our loved ones grow older, subtle shifts begin to occur — they may speak less, forget names, show irritability, or withdraw from family conversations. Too often, these signs are brushed off as “just part of getting old.” But that simple dismissal could be standing between your parent and the support they truly need.

This is where family empathy becomes powerful — not just as a comforting emotion, but as a critical mental health tool for aging loved ones.

Why Empathy Matters in Elder Care

Aging brings a unique psychological burden:

• Fear of dependency

• Grief over lost peers or a fading sense of purpose

• Anxiety about memory loss or cognitive decline

• Depression stemming from social isolation or chronic illness

Elders may not vocalise these emotions. In fact, many mask their struggles out of pride or fear of burdening others. Empathy bridges that silence. It helps us listen beyond words and respond with compassion, not correction.

Empathy vs. Dismissal: A Real-World Difference

Empathetic Approach	Dismissive Reaction
“You’ve been quieter lately — want to talk about anything?”	“You’re just getting older, it’s normal.”
“I notice you’ve been forgetting things — let’s see if a doctor can help.”	“It happens at this age, don’t worry.”
“It must feel lonely without your old friends. Want to join a senior group?”	“Everyone your age goes through this, you'll adjust.”

Empathy validates, while dismissal minimises. The latter shuts down emotional dialogue, increasing the risk of untreated mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or even early-stage dementia.

How to Cultivate Empathy for Aging Parents

1. Practice active listening — let them express fears without rushing to fix them.

2. Learn about geriatric mental health — awareness reduces judgment.

3. Be patient with repeated stories or mood swings — they’re often signs, not flaws.

4. Involve them in decisions to restore a sense of control and value.

5. Encourage professional mental health support when needed — just as you would for yourself.

   
   

Aging is natural — suffering in silence is not. By replacing dismissal with empathy, you’re not just being kind — you’re offering healing. Let's choose to see our elders, not just their age.

If you notice ongoing sadness, mood changes, withdrawal, or confusion in a loved one, don’t chalk it up to age. Professional insight can make a world of difference.

Dr. Arati Bhatt, Psychologist at SereinMind, specialises in elder mental health, emotional support, and family counselling. Her holistic, compassionate approach helps families and elders navigate the emotional challenges of aging with dignity and care.