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Report from the American Psychological Association
Gerontology & Geriatrics Education
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Despite advances in understanding older adults' mental health, many seniors lack access to necessary services. This article examines challenges faced by the American Psychological Association (APA) and the mental health field in the 1980s.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Mental Health Services Research
- Professional Psychology
Background:
- The 1980s presented significant challenges for mental health professionals and organizations.
- Despite growing knowledge about older adults' mental health needs, service provision remained inadequate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the difficult circumstances confronting the American Psychological Association (APA) and the broader mental health community during the 1980s.
- To highlight service, research, and policy issues relevant to the APA concerning older adults' mental health.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of challenges and activities within the APA and mental health sector.
- Review of existing research on mental health services for older persons.
Main Results:
- A significant gap persists between the need for and receipt of mental health services among the elderly.
- The APA engaged in various activities to address these complex issues.
Conclusions:
- Continued efforts are needed to improve mental health service accessibility for older adults.
- The APA played a role in addressing critical service, research, and policy concerns in aging mental health.