As we age, mental and physical changes can leave some people feeling left behind — perhaps even more isolated as a result of the pandemic, and other life changes. It doesn’t have to be that way.

Listen in for a discussion about special considerations affecting the mental health of older adults, and how to recognize signs of depression.

In this episode we hear from Angela Perri, vice president and chief Medicare officer for UPMC’s Insurance Services Division and Dr. Shannah Tharp-Gilliam, deputy director for the Area Agency on Aging within the Allegheny County Department of Human Services in Western Pennsylvania.

Related to this Episode:

Are you experiencing a crisis or are concerned about a loved one?

  • For general help, Allegheny County residents can call resolve Crisis Network which provides crisis counseling for a variety of issues, at 1-888-796-8226, or click here.
  • For help with addiction, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration’s hotline at 1-800-662-4357, or click here.
  • For general resources on addiction and mental illness, visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, here.
  • For help with a mental health crisis, reach National Alliance on Mental Illness by dialing 988, or click here.
  • To reach UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital and UPMC Western Behavioral Health, call 1-877-624-4100, or click here.
  • UPMC Health Plan members can learn more about behavioral health programs, tools, and resources, by clicking here.
  • To learn more about Community Care Behavioral Health, click here.  
  • The SeniorLine through the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging is a one-stop resource for questions. Call 412-350-5460 or toll-free at 1-800-344-4319. Visit the website here.
  • Area agencies on aging in Pennsylvania offer an array of services and information for senior citizens and their families. To find an agency near you, call 717.541.4214 or visit the website for P4a, an association of the agencies, here.

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