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Seniors

As Canada’s population continues to age, mental health services and supports for seniors are becoming a greater priority. While many seniors lead fulfilling lives without significant physical or cognitive changes, the challenges that come with aging can be debilitating. Physical ailments, mobility issues, chronic pain, cognitive and sensory impairments can affect one’s functional ability. Other challenges such as retirement, changes in income, widowhood, the loss of friendships through death, and new caregiving responsibilities can lead to social and emotional isolation. Research indicates that promoting and maintaining mental health among seniors has a positive impact on their overall health and well-being and significantly affects quality of life.

Related Policy Papers

March 29, 2012 Summary of Older Adults Mental Health and Addictions Invitational Forums Held February 16 and March 29, 2012

A joint submission to the Ministry of Health and Long-term Care from the Canadian Mental Health Association, Ontario and Canadian Pensioners Concerned based upon the feedback of two forums on mental health issues facing older adults in Ontario. (May, 2012)

Policy Papers Seniors
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March 1, 2010 Mental Health and Addictions Issues for Older Adults: Opening the Doors to a Strategic Framework

It is estimated that the prevalence of mental health problems in adults over 65 years ranges from 17 to 30 percent. This report identifies services and supports needed for older adults at risk/or living with mental health conditions.

Policy Papers Seniors
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August 27, 2009 Focus on Seniors: Response to 'Every Door is the Right Door: Towards a 10-Year Mental Health and Addictions Strategy'

This is a third in a series of responses by CMHA Ontario to the discussion document, “Every Door is the Right Door: Toward a 10-Year Mental Health and Addictions Strategy.” This report provides feedback on the strategy from the perspective of meeting the needs of seniors. (August, 2009)

Policy Papers Seniors
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Minding Our Bodies: Healthy Eating and Physical Activity for Mental Health.
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