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Mental health and support as you get older

Many older people think they will lose their independence if they admit to being forgetful, depressed or confused. This is rarely the case. You are much more likely to be supported in your own home, for as long as possible, than be encouraged to enter a care home or hospital.

Where to get help

The best place to start is at your doctor's, who will make an initial 'assessment'. The doctor will talk to you about your thoughts and feelings, check whether an illness might be responsible for your problems and consider what treatment may work for you.

The most common mental health problems as you get older are dementia and depression.

Dementia

Dementia is caused by a number of different diseases that affect brain function. These include Alzheimer's disease and stroke.

Many people think they have dementia just because they forget the details of some things. But stress, depression and ageing can all affect your memory. Most people never experience dementia.

Dementia is usually a gradual loss in being able to reason and remember. People with dementia may:

  • become forgetful
  • lose concentration easily
  • not recognise familiar faces and objects
  • experience mood changes
  • have problems reading and writing

If you are worried, go to your doctor. Make sure you are clear and concise with your doctor - you can take someone with you or make a list of your symptoms if it helps.

Treatment for dementia

Although many causes of dementia are not curable, there is a range of treatment and support that can help slow the progression of the illness and improve people's quality of life.

There are local specialist services that will be able to visit you in your own home to offer advice and support. Your doctor will be able to tell you more when they make a diagnosis.

Depression

Everyone feels 'the blues' at some point in their lives. Most of the time it passes in a few days but if the feelings do not pass in a few weeks it's important you see your doctor.

For example, a new website and free-to-call 24/7 helpline Lifeline (0808 808 8000) has been developed. It is aimed at improving awareness of the services which are available for people in crisis, despair and emotional distress.

Treatment for depression

There are a variety of treatments available for depression, including counselling, psychotherapy, and medication. If your doctor only offers you medication ask about the other treatments available.

There are also alternative treatments like acupuncture and exercise that may be useful and some areas have these treatments available through the Health Service.

Medication for dementia or depression

If your doctor discusses medication with you, you have the right to talk about the options available and ask about any side effects. You can ask for a second opinion if you are not comfortable with the information you are given.

You are entitled to be referred for treatment and you can say that you would like to be added to the waiting list however long the wait.

Prevention

There is no definite way to prevent dementia or depression. However, research shows that if you exercise, have a healthy diet, keep your brain active and take care of yourself, you are less likely to experience a mental health problem.

You may already be exercising and there is no reason to stop. Research shows that a loss of fitness is down to lifestyle – not old age. You may need to change the type of exercise you do but those who exercise are less likely to become depressed.

Plans for the future

Most people find peace of mind in planning for the future. You might like to consider:

Support

You may find further support from a variety of sources including local health services, charities, voluntary organisations and local groups.

Support for carers

The job of a carer is a challenging one and carers have a right to see that their own health needs, both physical and emotional, are met so that they are better placed to carry out the caring role.

Other mental health information

Mental health is covered by the Disability Discrimination Act and more information on mental health is available in the health and well-being section.

More useful links

Do it online

See also...