Early detection of mental health problems in older people

A survey of the mental health needs of older adults, conducted in 1996 by the Mental Health Services of Salford NHS Trust (Watts et al, 1996), confirmed earlier research findings that mental health problems in older adults are under-recognized and under-treated. This article reports on this survey, the aims of which were to identify within an inner city area in northwest England the extent and method by which primary care staff detect mild to moderate mental health problems in later life, and the best way to support the teams to detect and manage these issues effectively. As a result, this 11-week survey was conducted which sought to interview all attendees aged 65 years and above at a general practice. Given the high levels of psychological distress and low levels of identification, education/training was provided for practice staff, enabling them to develop the use of appropriate screening tools. The article concludes by discussing how the evaluation of the project by the primary healthcare teams involved has demonstrated that primary healthcare nurses can be trained in brief assessment tools and management techniques suitable for primary healthcare settings.