What Mental Health Resources Are Available for Older Adults?

Key takeaways:

Older adults are at risk for mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive issues.
Research shows that social support can lower your risk for developing mental health conditions.
Support groups, hotlines, and other resources can help older adults during a tough season or crisis.

Like everyone, older adults are at risk for certain mental health conditions. If you’re an older adult, you may find yourself more isolated because of declining health, the loss of a spouse or partner, or transportation challenges. The lack of social interaction and rising health problems can contribute to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or cognitive challenges.

You or your loved ones may dismiss your changes in mood as just another aspect of getting older. But mental health conditions aren’t an inherent part of aging. They can be treated with therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes — at every age.

Read on for resources on where to find mental health and social support specifically for older adults. You’ll also find a list of who to call if you’re experiencing a crisis.

Resources to help older adults learn about mental health

If you’re not sure where to turn to learn more about mental health, the following resources may help. They address mental health issues as you age as well as offer tips and resources to help you feel better.

Administration for Community Living (ACL): ACL offers programs and educational materials to help older adults navigate behavioral health issues.
Health in Aging: Launched by the American Geriatrics Society, Health in Aging provides information for older adults and their loved ones about mental health.
National Council on Aging (NCOA): NCOA provides mental health resources for older adults. This includes webinars and blog post articles on mental health and aging.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): This resource includes information about mental health and aging as well as a list of mental illness warning signs.

How does social support help with mental health in older adults?

One of the most beneficial sources for support for older adults comes from social interactions. In fact, the World Health Organization says “social care is important for promoting older people’s health, preventing disease, and managing chronic illnesses.”

There are several ways to find social support in your area and online. You could look for a group that focuses on a specific disease or health condition. Or you could find ways to simply have fun and enjoy the company of others. Either way, getting social support may be your first step in overcoming a mental health concern and improving your outlook on life.

Disease or condition-specific support groups, local social groups, and hotlines are just a few options you can consider.

1. Disease-specific support groups

If you live with a specific health condition, you can often find support resources through organizations that focus on that health concern. This may help you connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Here are a few common ones to start your search:

Alzheimer’s Association: Anyone affected by Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia can join the Alzheimer’s Association virtual support group or online community.
American Cancer Society: If you have cancer or are a cancer survivor, the American Cancer Society can help you find a local support group.
American Heart Association: This organization connects those living with heart disease and related conditions. For example, use the Stroke Support Group Finder to meet others who have had a stroke.
Arthritis Foundation: If you have arthritis, you can join the Arthritis Foundation’s online community, virtual connect group, or a local arthritis support group.
Defeat Diabetes Foundation: This foundation has a list of local support groups for people living with and managing diabetes.
Mental Health America: This organization hosts a variety of support groups and online discussions with topics ranging from depression to grief and bereavement.

2. Social groups

When you’re looking to connect with others, there are many ways to start right in your community. Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor options, consider a few of these ideas:

Faith- or spirituality-based communities: A local church or synagogue may offer activities for older adults as well as a space to connect with others.
Fitness centers: Your local gym may have free exercise classes exclusively for older adults.
Libraries: Support groups often meet in local libraries. Your library may also host book clubs and workshops for older adults.
Meetup: Check out the Meetup platform online to find social support groups and other activities for older adults like tai chi classes and walking clubs.
Nonprofit organizations: If you believe in a cause, you may enjoy volunteering with other people to promote that cause through a nonprofit organization.
Parks and recreation centers: Many parks and rec programs are designed for adults over 55 such as water aerobics or pickleball.
Senior centers: Senior centers across the country host support groups as well as offer classes in painting, crafting, and other hobbies.

3. Hotlines for mental health issues

A crisis hotline is a number you can call if you feel like you can’t cope with your current situation and are considering suicide or self-harm. The following hotlines are answered by trained counselors who can provide immediate support and referrals.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: If you’re dealing with a crisis or feel emotional distress, you can call this hotline any time, day or night, at 800-273-TALK (8255).
Crisis Text Hotline: Text 741-741 to reach a crisis counselor 24/7 to discuss anxiety, depression, suicide, or any stressful situation.
National Helpline: Reach SAMHSA’s free National Helpline for referral services and information on mental health by calling 800-662-HELP (4357).
Veterans Crisis Hotline: Dial 800-273-8255 and press 1 to speak with a counselor if you’re a veteran experiencing a serious mental health issue.

The bottom line

As adults age, they can be more vulnerable to mental health conditions. Isolation, physical limitations, and chronic conditions may trigger anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues. Dementia may also play a role. Social support, community groups, and other social outlets may ease mental health symptoms. And don’t forget to check in with your healthcare provider if you’re struggling with your mental health to discuss potential treatment for your condition.

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Written by:

Ana Gascon

Ana Gascon has over 15 years of writing and editing experience, with 8 years in health and medical content work. She is a content creator who focuses on acute conditions, chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and health equity.

Edited by:

Renée Fabian, MA

Renée Fabian is the senior pet health editor at GoodRx. She’s worked for nearly 10 years as a journalist and editor across a wide range of health and well-being topics.

Reviewed by:

India B. Gomez, PhD

India B. Gomez, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist with a certificate in Latin American Family Therapy. She completed her doctoral education at the California School of Professional Psychology/Alliant International University.

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