Website of the UK government

Where to get help

The best place to start is at your doctor's, who will make an initial 'assessment'. The doctor will talk to you about your thoughts and feelings, check whether any physical illness might be responsible for your problems and consider what treatment may work for you (and this does not always mean medication).

The most common mental health problems as you get older are dementia and depression.

• Mental health assessments (disabled people section)
• Community care assessments (disabled people section)

Dementia

Dementia is caused by a number of different diseases that affect brain function. These include Alzheimer's disease and stroke. Many people think they have dementia just because they forget the details of some things. But stress, depression and ageing can all affect your memory. Most people never experience dementia.

Dementia is usually a gradual loss in being able to reason and remember. People with dementia may:

If you are worried, go to your doctor. Make sure you are clear and concise with your doctor; you can take someone with you or make a list of your symptoms if it helps.

Treatment for dementia

Although many causes of dementia are not curable, there is a range of treatment and support that can help slow the progression of the illness and improve people's quality of life. There are local specialist services that will be able to visit you in your own home to offer advice and support. You doctor will be able to tell you more when they make a diagnosis.

• Dementia information on NHS Choices Opens new window

Depression

Everyone feels 'the blues' at some point in their lives. Most of the time it passes in a few days but if the feelings do not pass in a few weeks it's important you see your doctor.

• Depression information from Mind Opens new window
• Depression information on NHS Choices Opens new window

Treatment for depression

There is a variety of treatments available for depression, including counselling, psychotherapy, and medication. If your doctor only offers you medication ask about the other treatments available. There are also alternative treatments like acupuncture and exercise that may be useful and some areas have these treatments available on the NHS.

• Mental health care professionals (disabled people section)

Medication for dementia or depression

If your doctor discusses medication with you, you have the right to talk about the options available and ask about any side effects. You can ask for a second opinion if you are not comfortable with the information you are given.

You are entitled to be referred for treatment and you can say that you would like to be added to the waiting list however long the wait.

Prevention

There is no definite way to prevent dementia or depression. However, research shows that if you exercise, have a healthy diet, keep your brain active and take care of yourself, you are less likely to experience a mental health problem.

You may already be exercising and there is no reason to stop. Research shows that a loss of fitness is down to lifestyle – not old age. You may need to change the type of exercise you do but those who exercise are less likely to become depressed.

• Staying physically active
• Staying mentally active
• Healthy eating for over 50s

Plans for the future

Most people find peace of mind in planning for the future. You might like to consider:

• Managing your affairs and lasting power of attorney

Support

You may find further support from a variety of sources including local health services, charities, voluntary organisations and local groups.

Support for carers

The job of a carer is a challenging one and carers have a right to see that their own health needs, both physical and emotional, are met so that they are better placed to carry out the caring role.

• Looking after yourself as a carer (caring for someone section)

Other mental health information

Mental health is covered by the Disability Discrimination Act and more information on mental health is available in the disabled people section.

• Mental health (disabled people section)

More useful links

• Introduction to mental health (disabled people section)