OPINION | Luisina Daives. Amadem psychologist
There are several reasons why taking care of mental health will be crucial at a stage where brain aging begins to be imminent. Some of these are: in 2030, one in six people in the world will be 60 years old or older, that is, we are heading towards an aging population, since birth rates have decreased; loneliness and social isolation are key risk factors for mental health conditions in later stages of life; one in six older adults suffers abuse, often by caregivers; approximately 14% of adults aged 60 or older live with a mental disorder.
Mental health promotion and prevention strategies for older adults focus on promoting healthy aging, which involves creating physical and social environments that facilitate well-being and allow people to carry out activities that are important to them, despite the possible loss of faculties.
For older adults, social connection is extremely important to reduce risk factors such as social isolation and loneliness. At this stage of life, social activities can significantly improve positive mental health, life satisfaction, and quality of life; they can also reduce depressive symptoms. Cognitive activity, physical activity, and social engagement are associated with better cognitive functioning in later life. Of course, not drinking, not smoking, and eating optimally are going to be determining factors for health.
It is highly recommended to create routines where cognitive exercise: reading, calculations, a language, being able to learn something new where the brains strive and generate plasticity; key physical activity, social relationships, speaking, listening, exchange of physical affection, will help the mental and physical health of an older person to be better cared for and move towards healthy aging.
