Mental Health and Well Being in Later Life

There are many references and the book is meticulously researched. One of its main successes lies in reminding health professionals that the health and wellbeing of older people is a complex subject and should not be solely encapsulated in a medicalised framework of ill health with an invariable decline in mental acuity. factors contributing to mental health are explored, with reference to sociological and cultural theories, as well as links to policy and literature reviews.
Cathe Gaskell, Nursing Standard (Volume 24, January 2010)

This books main contribution … is to say to us all there is no single solution, no magic bullet, no instant cure, for the discomforts and illnesses of older age, and that not all ageing is comfortable. But it also tells us that it is in our control to do something about much of this, that older peoples mental well-being could be vastly improved, and that public policy, and private attitudes, need to change. I hope that it is as influential as it deserves to be.
Taken from the foreword by Baroness Julia Neuberger, Former Chief Executive of the Kings Fund and author of ‘Not Dead Yet

Mental health issues amongst older adults are becoming ever more prevalent. This fascinating book looks broadly at the mental health and well being issues that affect adults in later life. Taking a holistic approach to mental health and mental health promotion, the book explores the debates around what is meant by mental health and mental illness and the wider social determinants of mental health.

All chapters have a common thread running through them – each of which was identified as being a key theme for mental health and well-being by adults in later life. Among them are issues relating to::

• Gender
• Ethnicity
• Societal diversity
• Poverty
• Class
• Cultural differences

A range of examples from the UK and other countries, along with insights gained from older peoples own perspectives, are used to emphasise the evidence base for effective interventions to promote mental health. Case studies, vignettes and quotes demonstrate how social theory and principles of health promotion can be effectively applied to improve practice.

Mental Health and Well Being in Later Life is key reading for those working or intending to work in public health, health promotion and health and social care professions, especially those who work with older people.