As adults age, they undergo major changes in their lifestyle. Retirement from their career, the loss of spouses or other social supports, and new or worsening health conditions can all take their toll on emotional well-being. When those changes are compounded with existing mental health issues, a moderate bout of depression or anxiety can suddenly have a huge impact on day-to-day functioning.

For adults 55 and older in the New Britain area who are struggling with mental health, the Hospital of Central Connecticut’s Older Adult Intensive Outpatient Program offers a unique mix of treatment and lifestyle development.

“Traditional mental health programs are very focused on developing coping skills, and although that’s part of our approach, we also try to help people through the changes in their life,” said Samantha Sanborn, MA, LPC, psychiatric clinician for HOCC Outpatient Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. “A major focus in the program is on building up new social supports and connecting to resources in the community.”

On any given day, the HOCC clinicians might be helping clients sign up for the Silver Sneakers program, which offers free gym memberships for people 65 and older with certain insurances, or identifying local discounts offered for seniors in the community like Big Y’s Senior Savings Club.

For many clients, the group itself has become a source of socialization and support.

“The Older Adult program has become a little community, more so than some of our other groups,” Sanborn said. “They have their own separate space, they have their tea break and lunch together, and are very supportive of one another.”

“We had one woman with limited mobility, and everyone in the group made it a point to help her with her coat or her lunch tray. There’s a unique dynamic.”

The specific age range of the group — which spans from 55 to over 80 years old — is a primary reason the clients are able to connect as well as they do.

“It can be tough for older adults to sit in a group with a 27-year-old and try to find common ground,” said Danielle Marinucci, LCSW, psychiatric clinician for HOCC Outpatient Psychiatry and Behavioral Health. “This group is a great place for them to feel comfortable with people who are facing similar challenges and are able to relate based on their life experiences.”

The topics covered in group therapy are catered to the age group and include loneliness, health changes, shifts in employment, sense of identity, and medication management. Each client also works directly with a board-certified geriatric psychiatrist who is trained in understanding the impacts of various medications on older adults.

“We want them to draw on their skills and talents, relive good memories, and feel empowered for as long as possible,” Marinucci said.

For more information or to schedule an intake appointment, call the HOCC Counseling Center at 860.224.5267.