News Release, 3 December 2002
Age Concern and the Mental Health Foundation will join forces tomorrow, Wednesday 4th December 2002, to address major gaps in mental health services for older people.
The two charities are kicking off their collaboration with a joint seminar to identify key issues to be tackled. The seminar, to take place in central London, will inform the development of a major inquiry into older people's mental health.
Mental health influences all aspects of older people's lives including their physical health and quality of life. Significant numbers of older people in the UK experience mental health problems, particularly depression and dementia, and many others can experience periods of distress due to events like bereavement. In an ageing population, the need to address older people's mental health needs is set to grow. At any one time, around 10 to 15 per cent of the population aged 65 and over will have depression. It is estimated that by 2026 there will be 840,000 people with dementia in the UK, rising to 1.2 million by 2050.
The long-term aim of the initiative is to improve and raise the profile of older people's mental health by providing support for older people and their carers. At present, many existing mental health services do not meet the needs of older people or are subject to upper age limits.
Project workers cite examples such as a man who has suffered from manic depression for thirty years being told at 65 that he was no longer entitled to the day service that had supported him because he was too old.
The Mental Health Foundation and Age Concern believe a comprehensive review of older people's mental health is long overdue. There is a growing demand from older people themselves to raise the profile of their experiences amongst the public and professionals.
Dr Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation said:
"For far too long the mental health needs of older people haven't been given the priority they deserve. There is a yawning gap in service provision, policy and listening to older people about what they need."
"No coherent attempt has yet been made to identify vulnerability factors or to develop systematic recommendations for improvement in services for older people with mental health needs."
"This opportunity for Age Concern and the Mental Health Foundation to work together on such an important area should lead to the greatly improved mental health and quality of life for older people."
Gordon Lishman, Director General of Age Concern said:
"It's important that we understand how older people themselves define their mental health needs. We need to ensure that they get fair access to the support they need, regardless of their age. The needs of individuals do not suddenly stop because of their age. This must be recognized and reflected in better service provision."
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For further information and interview requests contact please contact the press office on 020 7803 1105 / 1128 or email the press office
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