This campaign is aimed at improving the quality of life of older people with depression.
Depression in later life is not an inevitable part of ageing, but 12-15% of over 65s do have symptoms of clinical depression and, unfortunately, many do not receive suitable treatment. Just a third of older people with depression ever discuss it with their GP, and only half of those who do are actually diagnosed and treated. There is lack of awareness of this condition among the general public (including older people themselves) as well as health professionals, and all too often it is dismissed with a “what can you expect at your age” attitude.
This is an important campaign as older men and women have some of the highest suicide rates of all ages in the UK, and depression is the leading risk factor for suicide. The campaign communicates that depression in older people is common, and treatable by a range of therapies (not just medication).
