Views on behalf of Dr.Jayashree Dasgupta, Project Director & Co-Founder, Samvedna Senior Care on World Mental Health Day

New Delhi, October 09, 2021: Although mental health and well-being are an essential aspect of life at all ages, unfortunately in the elderly it is not given due importance. Mental health problems may manifest differently in older adults as compared to younger adults. Elders may also attribute feelings of sadness to their physical problems or change in life circumstances making it difficult for family members to realise that there may be an underlying mental health issue.

According to the WHO, approximately 15% of adults over 60 years have a mental disorder across the world. In India, studies indicate one in five elderly persons have mental health issues. Considering that the elderly population above 60 years in India is estimated to grow by 41% over the next decade to reach 194 million, it is important to focus on the mental health of older adults. We need to watch out for those initial signs and not dismiss them as a normal part of ageing.