World Mental Health Day- 10 October: care strategies for older peoples mental health needs

The world celebrates World Mental Health Day on October 10 every year. On this day, various programs are held to draw attention to mental health issues and their effects on those affected, as well as the lives of those who care for them. In India, World Mental Health Day is observed on the final day of the Ministry of Health and

Family Welfare's Mental Health Awareness Campaign Week, which was launched last year.

The theme for World Mental Health Day, 2022

The theme for World Mental Health Day 2022 is "Make mental health and well-being for all a global priority." According to the WHO, more than 700,000 people commit suicide each year as a result of stress or depression. World Mental Health Day emphasizes how stigma and discrimination harm those who suffer. It advocates for social inclusion and everyone's right to adequate care.

The older adult population today is unlikely to recognize a mental illness or seek mental health services. There are many misconceptions about what mental illness is. Many elderly people regard mental illness as a sign of weakness and are reluctant to admit to having problems, especially if they fear losing their independence. Mental health is very important, and any issues can have a significant impact on an elderly person's ability to perform basic daily living activities, reducing their independence and quality of life. 

Treatment and care strategies for older people's mental health needs

It is critical to prepare health providers and societies to meet the unique needs of older populations, which include:

• Training for health professionals to care for the elderly

• Preventing and managing chronic diseases associated with ageing, such as mental, neurological, and substance use disorders

• Developing long-term and palliative care policies that are sustainable; and

• Creating age-friendly services and environments

Promotion of Health

Promoting Active and Healthy Ageing can help improve the mental health awareness of older adults. Mental health-specific health promotion for older adults entails creating living conditions and environments that promote well-being and enable people to live healthy lives. Promoting mental health is heavily reliant on strategies to ensure that older people have the resources they require, such as:

• Providing safety and liberty

• Adequate housing provided by supportive housing policies

• Social support for the elderly and their caregivers

• Health and social programs aimed at vulnerable groups such as the elderly and rural populations, as well as those suffering from chronic or relapsing mental or physical illnesses

• Programs to prevent and address elder abuse

• Programs for community development

Source:

Mental health of older adults (who.int)

World Mental Health Day 2022: Theme, History and Significance (msn.com)

Mental health and wellbeing of older people: opportunities and challenges - PMC (nih.gov)

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