Online Therapy: A Mental Health Guide For The Elderly

Online therapy, offers an opportunity to older adults seeking convenient, accessible and effective mental health care. The mental health and well-being of the elderly are frequently neglected and overlooked, often resulting in their emotional and psychological needs not receiving the attention they deserve.

The Rise of Mental Health Issues among Older Adults

• Mental health issues among older adults are more prevalent than one might think. According to a study conducted by Age UK, 2.6 million adults  across Great Britain report that they feel lonely “often” or “always”.
•  The same study reveals that , more than 2 million people in England over the age of 75 live alone, and more than a million older people say they go for over a month without speaking to a friend or family member.
• The Office for National Statistics reports that one in five adults aged 65 and over experience depression, highlighting a critical need for accessible mental health services.

The Benefits of Online Therapy for Older Adults

• Accessibility: Online therapy breaks down barriers that might prevent older adults from seeking help, such as mobility issues or lack of transportation. With just a computer or smartphone, therapy sessions can be conducted from the comfort of one’s home.
• Flexibility: Scheduling flexibility is another advantage of online therapy. Older adults can arrange sessions at times that suit them best, whether it’s early morning or late evening.
• Privacy: Online therapy offers a level of anonymity and privacy that might be harder to achieve with in-person sessions. For those who feel stigmatized about seeking help, this can be a crucial factor in deciding to reach out.

Overcoming Barriers

Despite its many advantages, there are still barriers to the widespread adoption of online therapy among older adults. These include digital literacy, access to reliable internet, and initial reluctance to embrace new technologies. Age UK reports that awareness of online mental health services has risen by 50% among older adults over the past three years, reflecting the growing recognition of the benefits of digital therapy.

Online therapy is proving to be a game-changer for mental health care among older adults in the UK. According to Mind, a leading mental health charity in the UK, 80% of older adults who engaged in online therapy reported improvements in their mental health and well-being. By offering accessible, flexible, and effective support, it addresses the unique challenges faced by the elderly population. As awareness and acceptance continue to grow, online therapy is set to become an integral part of mental health care for older adults, providing a vital resource to enhance their quality of life.

If your organisation is looking for care workers to assist with the well-being of your loved ones, please learn more about Angel Care and contact us.

Published 11th of June 2024

By Angel Care