Key facts

• Globally, the population is ageing rapidly. Between 2015 and 2050, the proportion of the world’s population over 60 years will nearly double, from 12% to 22%.
• Mental health and well-being are as important in older age as at any other time of life.
• Mental and neurological disorders among older adults account for 6.6% of the total disability (DALYs) for this age group.
• Approximately 15% of adults aged 60 and over suffer from a mental disorder.

Mature adults, those aged 60 or above, make important contributions to society as family members, volunteers and as active participants in the workforce. While most have good mental health, many older adults are increasingly risk of developing mental health disorders, neurological disorders or substance use problems as well as other health conditions such as diabetes, hearing loss, and osteoarthritis. Moreover, as people age, they are more likely to experience several conditions at the same time.

Citation https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-of-older-adults