In fact, in many nursing homes psychiatric medications were prescribed by general practitioners with very little training in psychiatric medications, and even less understanding of the interactions between these medications and the changing metabolism of the elderly. Psychotropic medications, in combination with psychotherapy has been recognized as the most effective approach to treating mental disorders. Regarding the high cost of prescriptions in the elderly, new research indicates that when the behavioral and mental health needs of the individual are met, a decrease in medications results. There have been many positive outcomes to mental health services currently being offered to nursing homes. The positive outcomes of services extends beyond the client and their family.
Nursing homes report a lower stress level in nursing home staff as well.
The provision of a mental health therapist on staff is beneficial. On site recommendations, referrals, and emergency situations where a therapist can meet the immediate needs of the resident, are a few of the benefits of on-site therapeutic intervention. Further, it gives the nursing home the opportunity to build better treatment plans in meeting the psychological and emotional needs of the resident with a one on one session which most nursing home staff are unable to provide. Residents discuss the satisfaction they feel during and after services. The chance to be able to talk to another individual about the difficulties, challenges, and sometimes hopeless feelings that are experienced, is greatly valued.