Explain why you chose your topic and describe the expected impact on population health within the next five years.

The importance of the subject for public health is why I decided to study mental health among older adults. As our society ages, it is increasingly important to understand and address the mental health concerns of older people. Seniors with mental illness are more likely to experience social isolation, anxiety and depression, a decreased quality of living, medical problems and higher mortality.

The next five years will see an increase of mental disorders among people 65+ due to aging, cognitive decline, increased stressors associated with retirement or chronic illnesses or disabilities; a lack of knowledge about mental issues; limited accessibility to care because of cost or geographical barriers; the cultural stigma surrounding seeking treatment for mental illness; and medication that may affect emotional stability.

In order to ensure that mental illness in older adults is treated adequately, it’s important that healthcare providers, caregivers and family members, as well as policymakers, have an understanding of the challenges. This will allow them to create better prevention and intervention strategies. In addition, resources like support groups and counseling services that are specifically geared towards this particular population must be widely available.