Older adults must take care of mental health, booklet asserts

Older adults should take care to look after their mental health, according to a new booklet.

The Mental Health Foundation has released literature to encourage people in their 60s approaching retirement or recently retired to follow ten simple steps to safeguard their mental health as they go through the often stressful transition into retirement.

Toby Williamson, head of development and later life at the Mental Health Foundation, stated: "Currently around one in four people aged over 65 suffer symptoms of mental illness, mostly depression."

The book outlines some tips to navigate mental health issues, including being prepared for changes, talking about problems and concerns, and asking for help.

Mr Williams states that it is the intention of the Mental Health Foundation to "challenge the idea that mental health problems are a part of aging" and to address concerns older adults may have.

Research has also shown that when progressing into our 80s, remembering past satisfactions with life can help protect against depression.

Diminished problem solving abilities are also significant contributors to depressive symptoms in older adults.

Read about support and personalised care at Barchester care homes for anyone with mental health concerns.