Learning aims

This learning object will help you:

  • explore the meaning and dimensions of mental health
  • appreciate the importance of mental health as an aspect of successful ageing
  • consider ways in which mental health can be promoted and mental illness prevented

Estimated time required

40-60 min

Instructions

Welcome to the text only version of this learning resource. This version is intended for users using assistive software or those who may need to increase font sizes or for users with very slow connections.

These learning materials aim to explore mental health in later life. They will review the meaning of mental health, why it is an important part of overall well being and how it relates to successful ageing.

They will also offer an overview of the different aspects of an older person's life and situation that impact on their mental health and the role that an individual and their family, the community they live in and wider society can play in promoting, or undermining, mental health.

Navigation

We recommend that you work through the introduction, the four main sections and the conclusion in the order that they are presented. To move around use the buttons at the bottom of each screen.

Case study materials

The case study materials used in these learning objects are based on first-hand accounts and personal experience. The majority of the images and voices used are those of actors. This approach has been adopted to protect the identities of the service users and carers whose accounts we have drawn upon.

References and self-assessment

When you have worked through the main sections you can:

  • visit the 'References' section where you can access extra materials that were references throughout and may provide useful opportunities for further reading/research. There is also a printable version of the reference list on this screen
  • visit the 'Self-assessment' section and test how far you have assimilated the key messages from this learning object