Mima Cattan

"This book's main contribution … is to say to us all there is no single solution, no magic bullet, no instant cure, for the discomforts and illnesses of older age, and that not all ageing is comfortable. But it also tells us that it is in our control to do something about much of this, that older people's mental well-being could be vastly improved, and that public policy, and private attitudes, need to change. I hope that it is as influential as it deserves to be." Taken from the foreword by Baroness Julia Neuberger, Former Chief Executive of the King's Fund and author of ‘Not Dead Yet’ Mental health issues amongst older adults are becoming ever more prevalent. This fascinating book looks broadly at the mental health and well being issues that affect adults in later life. Taking a holistic approach to mental health and mental health promotion, the book explores the debates around what is meant by mental health and mental illness and the wider social determinants of mental health. All chapters have a common thread running through them – each of which was identified as being a key theme for mental health and well-being by adults in later life. Among them are issues relating to: Gender Ethnicity Societal diversity Poverty Class Cultural differences A range of examples from the UK and other countries, along with insights gained from older people’s own perspectives, are used to emphasise the evidence base for effective interventions to promote mental health. Case studies, vignettes and quotes demonstrate how social theory and principles of health promotion can be effectively applied to improve practice. Mental Health and Well Being in Later Life is key reading for those working or intending to work in public health, health promotion and health and social care professions, especially those who work with older people.

EBOOK: Mental Health And Well Being In Later Life

This study investigated the evidence base for health promotion interventions targeting social isolation and loneliness in older people. The research comprised: a systematic literature review, a survey of projects in northern England, and case studies involving interviews with staff and older people. The majority of projects were not evidence based with large variations in evaluation. The review identified a small number of relevant studies. Effective interventions targeted older people at risk and enabled participants some control over project activities. Older people differentiated between chronic and situational loneliness, and isolation versus loneliness, suggesting a need for different interventions. Many projects did not have strategies for identifying isolated, lonely older people. Access to activities intended to alleviate social isolation and loneliness among older people was often inequitable, tailored to participants' expectations, rather than to the needs of those most isolated and lonely. Many projects consulted older people superficially, providing activities, which did not necessarily meet the needs of isolated, lonely older people.

Effectiveness of Health Promotion Interventions

Preventing Social Isolation and Loneliness Among Older People

Sylvia Tilford

"This is a well-organised book. The layout is clear, with references at the end of each chapter, and there are activities and questions for reflection, as well as good use of tables. The editors’ foreword at the beginning of each chapter provides a useful link from the previous material, and gives a sense of continuity. "It will…be a useful addition to a reading list for public health students and anyone interested in promoting mental health in their clients. It will provide a useful platform for debate, and a summary of mental health needs at different points in the life span." Critical Public Health "This text provides an excellent overview for anyone new to mental health promotion or wanting to refresh their learning. ...the book provides a concise argument that mental health promotion has a strong theory base, evidence base and value base for anyone wishing to learn, advocate for or develop its practice." mentalhealth today “This book is a useful overview for mental health promotion and will stimulate practitioners and researchers to delve more into this important topic" The Internet Journal of Mental Health Mental Health Promotion is the first textbook to provide an accessible guide to applied mental health promotion across all age groups, and demonstrates how both principles and theory can be used to underpin mental health promotion. Cross cutting themes at each stage of the lifespan are addressed, including: reduction of inequalities; theory and evidence based practice and culturally sensitive approaches to practice. Key features of the book include: A recognition of the ‘uniqueness’ of different age groups in terms of specific mental health issues A lifespan approach; identifying different health promotion interventions for different age groups Illustrations of how to apply health promotion theory and principles to practice Inclusion of up to date evidence based examples of good practice for different age groups Use of international, national and local examples Mental Health Promotion is essential reading for those working in or studying public health, mental health promotion, social work, nursing, youth and community or community care.

Mima Cattan

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