Myth vs Fact: Senior Citizens' Mental Health

 

Myth vs Fact: Senior Citizens' Mental Health

Content by Olagoke | 19th April

As our population grows older, it’s time to face the truth: mental health in senior citizens matters. Unfortunately, many misconceptions prevent older adults from receiving the care and support they truly need.

Let’s debunk the myths and highlight the facts – because knowledge saves lives when it comes to elder care.

---

🧠 Myth 1: Mental health problems are just part of getting old.

Fact: Aging does bring unique challenges, such as bereavement, chronic illness, or retirement, but mental health issues are not a natural part of ageing. Many seniors live mentally sharp, emotionally balanced lives. Depression or anxiety in later life should never be dismissed as “normal.”

🔍 Evidence: NICE Guidelines on Older People’s Mental Health

---

🚫 Myth 2: Older adults don’t really suffer from mental health disorders.

Fact: They absolutely do. Around 1 in 5 older adults experience a mental health condition, such as depression, anxiety, or dementia. Sadly, many suffer in silence due to stigma or lack of awareness.

📌 Nigeria’s elderly population is growing fast, and many families are unprepared to support mental health needs, often mistaking symptoms for “old age behaviour.”

---

💬 Myth 3: There’s no point treating mental health issues in the elderly.

Fact: That couldn’t be further from the truth. With proper diagnosis, counselling, medication, and emotional support, seniors can experience real recovery and improvement in quality of life.

🧑‍⚕️ Therapy, support groups, and meaningful social interaction are incredibly effective.

---

🏥 Why This Matters in Nigeria – And the UK

In Nigeria, older adults with mental health concerns are often neglected, sometimes hidden due to fear of shame. Yet the population of seniors (60+) is expected to more than double by 2050. We must act now to break the stigma.

In the UK, loneliness and isolation continue to impact senior mental health. We must champion community-driven support, especially for African and diaspora elders.

---

💚 EOON Care: Here to Support You

At EOON Care, we’re passionate about dignified ageing and mental wellness for elders. Our trained team provides:

• ✅ One-on-one counselling

• ✅ Family education and support

• ✅ Therapeutic activities to build purpose and connection

• ✅ Guidance for managing dementia, depression, and anxiety

We believe that no one should suffer in silence – especially not our elders.

---

✅ Take Action Today

Don’t let myths block your loved ones from getting help.

👉 Know the facts.
👉 Talk about mental health.
👉 Reach out for support.

Let EOON Care be part of your family’s journey toward stronger bonds and healthier living.

---

📚 Resources

Explore our growing collection of helpful guides for caregivers and families:
🌐 EOON Care Resources & Guides

---

📞 Contact Us

EOON Care is Here to Help!
We specialise in elder care services to support family bonding and improve the quality of life for your elderly loved ones.

📍 Nigeria Office: +234 816 7929 521
🟢 WhatsApp only (UK): +44 7957 402 727
📧 Email: info@eooncare.com
🌐 Website: www.eooncare.com

Let’s build a healthier future together.
Stay informed. Stay connected. Stay mentally well.

---

📢 Hashtags

#MentalHealthMatters 
#SeniorCitizensMentalHealth 
#MythVsFact 
#EOONCARE 
#HealthyAging 
#NigeriaMentalHealth 
#UKEldersCare 
#MentalHealthAwareness 
#ElderlySupport 
#CaringForOurParents