Compared to younger cohorts, Singapore seniors are less likely to seek help for their mental health. NUS researchers weigh in on how we can ensure no senior is left behind.
SINGAPORE: Talking to someone about one’s mental health struggles is tricky business. The topic is still shrouded in taboo, and opening up about it may convey weakness and invite judgment.According to the Ministry of Health’s National Population Health Survey 2022, older adults aged 60 to 74 years arefrom healthcare professionals and informal networks, compared to younger cohorts.
Stepping out of their comfort zone to partake in community activities might feel overwhelming, and travelling to unfamiliar locations could lead to disorientation and stress. The uncomfortable truth is that more and more seniors are choosing this tragic solution, possibly finding the emotional pain of multiple stressors too insurmountable.Commentary: Heeding cries for help – getting to the heart of elderly suicides requires more than counsellingModern culture and society dictate that we do things fast. However, time may work more slowly for many seniors who are used to a different, less tech-oriented lifestyle.
Two-way communication is important, so family members should also take time to explain their own challenges, using a pace, tone and volume that makes it comfortable for their older relatives to understand any context and to ask further questions.
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