![Introduction
Mental health care in older adults requires a public
health approach with a focus on promoting the
mental health and well-being through a
comprehensive and multi-sectoral intervention.[1]
Mental health problems in older adults have several
biological and psychosocial determinants, including
important factors, such as social isolation and
loneliness.](https://image.slidesharecdn.com/promotionofmentalhealthinoldage-250702100032-7888615d/85/PROMOTION-OF-MENTAL-HEALTH-IN-OLD-AGE-pptx-2-320.jpg)
PROMOTION OF MENTAL HEALTH IN OLD AGE.pptx
- 1. 1 S T Y E A R G N M ( F O N ) M S . S M I T A PROMOTION OF MENTAL HEALTH IN OLD AGE
- 2. Introduction Mental health care in older adults requires a public health approach with a focus on promoting the mental health and well-being through a comprehensive and multi-sectoral intervention.[1] Mental health problems in older adults have several biological and psychosocial determinants, including important factors, such as social isolation and loneliness.
- 3. Reducing Social Isolation and Loneliness Why it matters Isolation leads to depression, anxiety, and even physical illness in the elderly. Organize group activities (e.g., yoga, prayer meets, senior clubs). Encourage regular visits or calls by community health workers or volunteers. Teach elderly individuals how to use technology to stay connected. Example: Grandma’s weekly calls with her grandchildren improves her mood and reduces loneliness.
- 4. Strengthening Psychosocial Support Why it matters: Emotional support is crucial for managing loss, life transitions, and daily stress. Build family support systems: Encourage intergenerational bonding. Create peer support groups for common issues (grief, chronic illness). Offer emotional counseling and life review sessions (sharing personal life stories).
- 5. Improving Access to Mental Health Services Why it matters Many older adults suffer in silence due to stigma or lack of services. Integrate mental health screening in regular check-ups (depression, dementia). Provide age-appropriate therapies: cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), reminiscence therapy(Reminiscence therapy is a psychological intervention that involves encouraging older adults to recall and discuss past experiences, often using prompts like photos, music, or familiar objects). Educate healthcare workers on elderly-specific psychological issues.
- 6. Mental Health Education and Awareness Why it matters: Awareness breaks stigma and empowers seniors to seek help. Run community campaigns to normalize talking about mental health. Teach elderly coping skills: breathing exercises, mindfulness, journaling. Educate families on early warning signs (withdrawal, sleep problems, irritability).
- 7. Promoting Physical and Purposeful Activities Why it matters: An active body supports an active mind. Encourage daily walks, yoga, gardening, or light dance. Provide opportunities for volunteering or mentoring younger people. Use occupational therapy to help find meaningful activities post-retirement.
- 8. Creative and Digital Therapies Why it matters: Stimulates brain activity and enhances emotional expression. Introduce music therapy, painting, dance, and storytelling groups. Train elderly in basic mobile phone use to reduce digital divide.
- 9. Spiritual & Cultural Well-being Why it matters: Spirituality often brings peace, purpose, and community. Support participation in religious or spiritual practices (if meaningful to the individual). Encourage cultural storytelling, festivals, and rituals that bring joy and connection.
- 10. Creating Age-Friendly Environments Why it matters: Safe, inclusive spaces reduce stress and encourage social participation. Build ramps, benches, and senior-friendly toilets in public places. Advocate for policies that offer social pensions, free check-ups, and mental health coverage. Involve older adults in community planning – give them a voice.
- 11. THANK YOU