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. It is rarely the case. You are more likely to be supported in your own home than encouraged to go into a care home or hospital.
Where to get help
Start by visiting your doctor for an initial assessment.
The doctor will:
- talk to you about your thoughts and feelings
- check whether an illness might be responsible for your problems
- consider what treatment may work for you
The most common mental health problems as you get older are dementia and depression.
Dementia
Dementia is a neurological condition characterised by a decline in brain function, leading to various cognitive and behavioural changes.
It is a progressive condition. There are many different types of dementia. The most common types are:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- vascular dementia
- dementia with Lewy bodies
- frontotemporal dementia
Strokes can increase the risk for vascular dementia.
People can suffer from a mixture of these types and dementia can also be an additional symptom for those suffering from multiple sclerosis and Parkinson disease.
Younger onset dementia is a term used for those diagnosed under the age of 65.
Many people think they have dementia just because they forget some detail but stress, depression and ageing can affect your memory.
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
It’s important to remember that people with Dementia can live a good quality of life especially when they receive the right care and support when they need it.
Getting diagnosed is an important step. If you are worried about your memory, go to your doctor. Be as clear with your doctor as possible and bring a list of your symptoms and the problems you are having. If it helps, bring someone with you for support.
Further information, on the types of dementia, signs of dementia and support available can be found at:
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.
Treatment for depression
There are various treatments for depression, including:
- counselling
- psychotherapy
- social prescribing
- 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.
Some of these treatments are available on the NHS.
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, you are less likely to experience a mental health problem if you:
- exercise
- have a healthy diet
- keep your brain active
- take care of yourself
You may already be exercising and there is no reason to stop.
A loss of fitness is down to lifestyle, not 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:
- how best to help your family feel supported
- whether alternative housing might offer more independence
- legal and financial issues
- Managing your affairs and enduring power of attorney
Support
You may find further support from a variety of sources including:
- local health services
- charities
- voluntary organisations
- local groups
Other mental health information
Mental health is covered by the Disability Discrimination Act and you can find out more about mental health at the link below:
- Your rights if you're disabled