Ageing Adults

Many of the factors that can lead to developing mental and emotional concerns are common to all people, at any point in life. As we age, stressors can occur more frequently, some of these challenges include:

• Increased incidence of physical ailments 
• New loss, including deaths of friends and family, changes to work and income, or differences with our bodies, such as reduced energy or mobility
• Changes to living arrangements, such as moving from a family home
• Experiencing milestones and the memories that they evoke

It is common for ageing adults to view mental and emotional challenges as weaknesses and attach a stigma to seeking help. It is important to seek assistance for all health concerns rather than ignoring symptoms, or allowing things to worsen to the point of an emergency.

In Australia, depression is common and ageing people are more likely to experience factors leading to depression such as loss, illness and major life changes. As the Australian population ages, it is anticipated that there will be more people living longer with mental and emotional health challenges and more people developing mental health concerns.

While we cannot stop the process of ageing, we can certainly learn new skills to improve our feelings and return to a place where life feels fulfilling and meaningful. We know that the length of time that someone has experienced a mental or emotional challenge does not determine their ability to recover from these feelings, so it is never too late to ask for support. 

It is important to share all of the details of how you feel and mention physical and mental symptoms to your GP so that they can assist you to get the best support.