Older Persons Mental Health

Getting older brings change – in health, roles, relationships and routine. For many people, this can also bring new or worsening mental health challenges such as low mood, anxiety, sleep disturbance, grief, trauma resurfacing, alcohol or medication concerns, and the stress of caring for a partner.

These are treatable conditions, and with the right support people can feel steadier, more connected and more in control.

What is older persons mental health?

Older persons mental health focuses on the prevention, assessment and treatment of mental health conditions in later life – typically ages 60+. It considers the unique interplay of physical health, medications, life events and social factors that can influence emotional wellbeing as we age.

Common presentations include:

  • Depression and anxiety, including late-onset symptoms
  • Adjustment difficulties related to health changes, retirement or loss
  • Sleep problems, fatigue and chronic pain
  • Alcohol or prescription medication dependence or misuse
  • Trauma and moral injury across the lifespan, including service-related experiences
  • Cognitive concerns and memory changes requiring clinical screening and care planning

Signs and symptoms

You may notice:

  • Persistent low mood, worry or irritability
  • Loss of interest, motivation or confidence
  • Poor sleep, early morning waking or nightmares
  • Changes in appetite, energy and concentration
  • Increased alcohol use or medication reliance
  • Withdrawing from family, friends or activities
  • Feelings of grief, loneliness or hopelessness
  • New confusion or memory changes impacting daily life

When to seek help

Reach out if symptoms:

  • Interfere with daily activities, independence or relationships
  • Follow a health event, surgery, fall or new medication
  • Are linked to caring responsibilities or bereavement
  • Include thoughts of self-harm or suicide – seek urgent care

Early support can prevent crises, reduce hospital stays and improve quality of life.

How Avive can help

Avive provides integrated mental health care designed for older adults – compassionate, trauma-informed and clinically led.

  • Comprehensive assessment – psychiatric review, medication reconciliation and deprescribing plans, physical and cognitive screening, and risk assessment
  • Foundations inpatient care – usually a 21-day stay to stabilise mood, optimise medications, improve sleep and energy, and build practical coping skills
  • Day programs – 8–12 weeks, small-group therapy one half-day per week to consolidate skills and maintain progress after discharge
  • Assisted therapies – where clinically appropriate, we consider additional therapies within our evidence-informed framework and after specialist review
  • Cloud Clinic telehealth – psychiatry and psychology appointments for those who prefer or require remote care, including regional and carer-constrained patients
  • Family and carer involvement – education and care planning sessions to support recovery at home, with consent
  • Care plans are personalised – taking into account medical conditions, mobility, sensory needs, cognition, culture and values.

Admissions, costs and referrals

  • Private health insurance – if you hold hospital cover, your fund may cover most inpatient costs.
  • Mental Health Waiver – for eligible patients upgrading cover, a once-in-a-lifetime psychiatric waiting period waiver may apply.
  • DVA – we welcome DVA Gold/White Card holders.
  • Self-funding – options are available.

 

Our team can check eligibility and guide you through next steps. Contact us on 1800 284 830 or by emailing help@avivehealth.com.au