More mental health services for elderly

More work and funding is needed for the mental health needs of people in old age, according to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists’ Faculty of Psychiatry of Old Age.

“Investment in dementia care and diagnosis and improved aged care services are essential and will go some way to improving the lives of older people with mental illness, and those of their families and carers,” chair of the faculty, Dr Roderick McKay, says, adding improved access to services supporting the person in their own home is “particularly welcome”.

As Australia’s population rapidly ages, Dr McKay believes mental health care of older people will become an “important part” in the mental health reform agenda.

“Planning for the mental health needs of older people and access to mental health care is critical to mitigate against poor mental health outcomes,” he claims.

He adds this area needs to be “built upon” to ensure “comprehensive support” for the mental health of older people.

“Older people need to be included in all mental health planning to improve their quality of care, remove discrimination and obtain better understanding of the mental health needs of older Australians.

“It is vital these issues be considered in the government’s Ten Year Roadmap for Mental Health Reform.”

According to Mr McKay, untreated mental illness “robs” older Australians of their quality of life, physical health and independence, at “significant cost to individuals, family and community”.

“While there are effective mental health treatments for older people, limited resources can deny them equitable access. Australia owes its older citizens and their families’ adequate support, respect, and dignity.”

Dr McKay has called for “national benchmarks” for the availability and quality of mental health services for older people.

“[There needs to be] national principles for providing coordinated care across different services for older Australians with mental illness. Basic mental health training for people working with older Australian is also essential.”

Do you agree with Dr Roderick McKay that more mental health services are needed for older Australians? Share your thoughts by commenting in the box below.