Meeting the unique mental health needs of older adults
The Optimal Aging Program at Huntsman Mental Health Institute is a specialized day treatment program designed for adults aged 50 years and older who need extra mental health support. This program works well if you're transitioning from a hospital stay or need more focused support than weekly outpatient therapy. We work with you daily to help you build healthy habits and coping skills, adapt to changes that come with aging, and to reduce loneliness by increase social connections.
Why choose the Optimal Aging Program?
As part of Ï㽶ÊÓƵ of Utah Health, the institute provides expert mental health care in a supportive, understanding environment. Our experienced team works with you to manage stress and anxiety, build healthy daily routines, and strengthen your coping skills. We understand that aging brings unique challenges, and we're here to help you feel more confident while reducing isolation. Through structured daily treatment and group support, you'll learn practical ways to improve your mental health and overall well-being.
Personalized care
We use a patient-centered approach to create a customized care plan tailored to your individual needs.
Comprehensive support
Our multidisciplinary treatment team of gerontologists, psychiatrists, and social workers provide a holistic approach to your care.
Supportive environment
We provide a safe, nurturing, and healing environment so that you can connect with others while learning skills to build a better quality of life.
What to expect from the program
Because we understand that everyone's path to wellness is unique, we offer personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Social workers, geriatric psychiatrists, gerontologists, and other mental health professionals supervise your therapeutic activities. They will help you develop effective coping strategies, improve your mental health, and enhance your quality of life.
Therapeutic approaches and activities offered:
- Group therapy sessions focused on emotional regulation, coping skills, relaxation, and aging education.
- Activities like art, music, and other creative pursuits that provide opportunities to explore and grow through emotional expression.
- Mind-body practices such as yoga, meditation, and exercise to support overall health and balance.
- Weekly sessions with our geriatric psychiatrist who oversees your individualized treatment and provides expert, evidence-based care.
Is this partial-hospitalization program right for you?
Day treatment, sometimes referred to as partial hospitalization, is a 2 to 6 week structured program beneficial for those at risk of hospitalization, or as a step-down from inpatient hospitalization. Many participants join this program after a hospital stay to continue their recovery in a structured and supportive environment.
The program is ideal for individuals who:
- Have had previous outpatient treatment experience(s).
- Have tried less-intensive forms of treatment with little success.
- Have recently completed or are stepping down from an inpatient hospitalization.
Individuals who may not be suitable:
- Individuals with a primary diagnosis of dementia.
- Individuals with active psychosis or substance use disorder (SUD).
- Individuals who do not have access to daily transportation.
- Individuals who struggle to engage and retain information.
Care team specializing in geriatric psychiatry
Our commitment to age-friendly care
We are committed to providing respectful, evidence-based care for older adults by adhering to the high-quality practices of an Age-Friendly Health System designation.