Mental health in later life
Mental health can be affected at any age, and some experiences in later life can affect wellbeing. This can include feeling sad, low in mood or lacking in motivation. Factors such as loneliness, bereavement, changes in physical health or retirement can affect mental health in later life. These feelings might come and go, or they may be long-term. If you or someone you know is experiencing changes in their mental health, support is available.
When to seek mental health support in later life
Mental health conditions in older people can be under-recognised and undertreated, and some people may face barriers to seeking or accessing support. NHS mental health services should provide care according to need rather than age.
Some older people may find it difficult to talk about their mental health, particularly if they have experienced stigma around mental health. However, support is available, and seeking help does not have to mean managing things alone.
Common mental health concerns in older people
Mental health concerns can affect people at any age. Some experiences and changes that can happen in later life may affect mental health and wellbeing.
Depression in older people
Depression is a prolonged state of feeling down or low in mood. It is characterised by having a lack of interest in things someone previously enjoyed, being reluctant to leave the house or socialise, losing confidence and being critical of yourself, changes in appetite or weight and, sometimes, feeling suicidal or that your life is not worth living. It’s important to know that, despite it being a common condition, everyone will experience depression differently. No matter what symptoms you may be having, your thoughts are no less significant than anybody else’s, and it’s recommended to seek early intervention.
There are many reasons why an older person may experience depression; sometimes there might be no obvious cause. Factors that may contribute include:
- financial worries
- bereavement
- disability or physical impairment
- retiring or a lack of routine in older age.
Anxiety in older people
Anxiety can also affect people in later life. Generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common mental health condition where someone feels anxious or worried about different things, and these feelings can be difficult to control. Experiences such as bereavement, health concerns or other significant life changes may also contribute to feelings of anxiety.
GAD is when people worry about many things and fear the worst in every situation. This might be due to limited mobility, losing a spouse, loss of independence, health conditions or poor sleep, for example.
Grief and bereavement in later life
If you have lost someone close to you, such as a child or a partner, you might experience feelings of grief. Bereavement is the time we spend adjusting to this loss. Sometimes, talking to someone about how you’re feeling can go a long way to supporting you through the grieving process.
Dementia and mental health
Dementia is a group of symptoms associated with an ongoing decline in brain function. There are different types and causes, and dementia is not a natural part of ageing. It is more common in people over 65, although younger people can also develop dementia. As it is a progressive condition, it can be especially hard to come to terms with as it worsens over time. This can bring about many feelings of apprehension and might contribute to other mental health conditions.
Loneliness in later life
Anybody can experience loneliness. Changes such as bereavement, retirement, illness or reduced mobility can make it harder for some people to maintain regular social contact. Living alone can also contribute to loneliness for some people, although being alone and feeling lonely are not the same thing.
Mental health support for older people
In today’s society, we are more accepting of mental health and, while there is still a long way to go, there are a vast number of resources available to those struggling with their mental health. Below we’ve listed some resources that older people may find useful:
- The Samaritans are available 24/7, whether you want to chat with someone anonymously or just want to be listened to. You can contact a Samaritan on 116 123 for free.
- Age UK is dedicated to providing support for older people. Their website provides information and advice, as well as useful resources and the latest news updates.
- Independent Age is a charity that provides a helpline service as well as information for the older generation, including steps you can take to keep mentally well.
Looking after your mental health in later life
There are also things you can try to support your mental wellbeing and stay connected with others. These include:
Talking to someone
Try to talk to someone close to you – whether that’s a neighbour, friend or family member whom you can trust. You don’t have to open up about how you’re feeling; even talking to them in general conversation can be enough to lift your mood.
Connecting with new people
Surrounding yourself with other people can help to make new connections and develop friendships. You could consider volunteering for a local organisation or starting a class to learn a new skill or pick up an old hobby. If you are unable to get out to see people and are comfortable using the internet, you could also consider going digital by using video chat to call friends and family. Ask a friend or family member to help you, or seek guidance from Age UK’s information on video calling.
Looking after yourself
Looking after your physical health can also support your overall wellbeing. This might include staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet and being physically active in a way that is appropriate for you. It can also help to make time for activities you enjoy.
Finding appropriate care
If looking after yourself might mean receiving some further help, either from family or a carer, that’s OK. Your care needs may vary from having someone check in and prepare your meals, or you might need help getting up, washed and dressed, and getting back into bed at the end of the day. Whatever support you need, it can seem overwhelming trying to organise the appropriate help. For more information on how to arrange this, visit Age UK.
If you are caring for an older person, you can find out more about the types of support available to you on our carer support page.
How counselling can support older people
Talking about how you feel can sometimes be difficult, particularly if you are used to managing things on your own. Counselling offers a confidential and supportive space to explore your thoughts, feelings and experiences with a trained professional.
People may seek counselling in later life for many different reasons. You might be coping with bereavement, retirement, loneliness, changes in your health or relationships, or worries about the future. You may also be experiencing anxiety, depression or another mental health concern. You do not need to be experiencing a mental health condition to benefit from talking about something that is affecting your wellbeing.
A counsellor can listen without judgement and help you explore what you are experiencing at your own pace. Depending on what you would like support with, counselling may help you understand difficult feelings, consider different ways of coping and adjust to changes in your life.
If you’re considering counselling, you can search for a qualified counsellor who works with older people and find someone who feels right for you.
