NICE defines older people as those aged 65 or older. This group will include those who have not yet retired right through to those who are no longer able to live independently so it’s a diverse group with a wide range of needs. Specific life changes such as retirement and bereavement, worsening physical health, giving up driving, being a carer and living on a low income can all affect mental health. 

Loneliness affects one million older people and is linked to the onset of dementia and is associated with depression. From a medicines perspective, mental health problems in older people have been associated with inappropriate use of antipsychotic medicines. 

Improving the mental wellbeing of older people and helping them to retain their independence can not only benefit them, but also their families, communities and society as a whole. Support groups that might be useful to older people include the Alzheimer’s Society, the Carers Trust and Carers UK.