As this holiday season is wrapping up, it’s also time to raise awareness of loved ones in long-term care.

The Long Term Care Authority of Enid Area Agency on Aging is wanting to help ensure not just the physical health of that population, but the mental health as well.

“You may have noticed someone you love is suffering,” said Julie Torson, one of two ombudsman supervisors at the LTCA of Enid.

“Perhaps they were withdrawn, told you not to worry about them, they turned down your invitation to come over for the holidays and chose to stay at the nursing home instead.”

Torson said those could be red fl ags.

“Moving into a nursing home can result in a nursing home resident becoming depressed and generally, staff is instructed to look for that,” she said.

“Holiday depression, however, is often overlooked due to everyone’s busy schedule.”

Torson said to “speak up” if you suspect a loved one might be suffering from depression, whether seasonal or chronic.

“Talk to the director of nursing or the administrator at your loved one’s nursing home,” she said. “Ask them to look in on your resident. Ask if the doctor could evaluate your loved one. And most importantly, talk to your loved one. Let them know that you are there for them and they are not a burden. Tell them you love them and everything will be fi ne.”

Depression is nothing to ignore, Torson added.

“About half of all seniors in long term care facilities are battling depression, with about 20 percent having severe depression,” she said.

Severe depression is not something a person can just “shake off,” added Torson, noting medication and therapy are often needed.

Mild depression can often be treated with diet and exercise, she said.

“Some recent studies have indicated that depression and suicide are on the rise in long term care,” Torson said.

“A recent study suggests that one nursing home resident per day is making a choice to end their life early.”

Torson said to call, without hesitation, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 if you or someone you know has talked about contemplating suicide.

It has been estimated that up to 60 percent of nursing home residents receive no visitors at all.

“This in itself is a depressing statistic,” Torson said.

The LTCA’s Ombudsman Program helps fi ll that need.

“Ombudsmen help to advocate for and visit residents in nursing homes, skilled nursing and assisted living facilities,” Torson said.

“If you or someone you know lives in a long term care facility and you have questions or concerns please call your local ombudsman supervisor.”

Torson and fellow supervisors David Huff can be reached at 580-237-2236.

Their office is located at 202 W. Broadway, Suite A, in Enid.