Mental Health and Older Adults
Continued intellectual, social and physical activity throughout the life cycle are important for the maintenance of mental health later in life. Normal aging is not characterized by mental or cognitive disorders. Still, as the population grows older, mental illness among older adults is becoming a more widespread problem. Luckily, effective interventions are available for most mental disorders experienced by older adults. The Ohio Department of Mental Health (ODMH) addresses the behavioral health needs of older adults through collaboration with other state agencies, boards, providers, families and consumers. (Sources: Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging and Mental Health: A Report of the Surgeon General)
Related Resources
Older Ohioans Behavioral Health Network
This network is operated by the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities (OACBHA). Its priorities include integration of physical and behavioral care, collaboration of aging and behavioral health service providers and stigma reduction.
Ohio Network of Care
The Ohio Network of Care provides information about Ohio behavioral health and senior services and national resources.
Ohio Department of Aging
This department provides services to people ages 60+ through eleven area agencies on aging, which employ nurses, social workers and other staff. Several agencies have adopted Healthy IDEAS (Identifying Depression and Empowering Activities for Seniors) -- an evidence-based early-intervention practice. For more information about implementing evidence-based practices for older adults, see the National Council on Aging web site.
Adult Protective Services
Adult Protective Services are provided to the elderly Ohioans who are in danger of harm and/or are unable to protect themselves. County departments of job and family services are mandated to investigate and evaluate all reports of suspected abuse, neglect and exploitation of adults age 60 and over. Adults who experience abuse, neglect or exploitation are offered supportive services, as available, for protection and self-sufficiency.