Mental health is as important in later life as it is at any other stage. Yet for many older adults in the UK, conditions such as depression, anxiety, or dementia often go unnoticed or untreated. Social care plays a crucial role in bridging this gap — providing emotional, psychological, and practical support to those who need it most.
This article explains how social care and mental health services work together, the types of support available for seniors, and what to expect from your local authority if you or a loved one needs help.
Understanding Mental Health in Later Life
Find YOUR ideal care home NOW!
Older adults can face unique mental health challenges linked to loneliness, bereavement, reduced mobility, or long-term illness. According to NHS data, one in four people aged over 65 experiences a common mental health condition, yet fewer than half receive formal support.
Social care interventions are essential to maintain well-being, prevent isolation, and enable independent living for as long as possible.
How Social Care Supports Mental Health
Social care focuses on improving quality of life rather than providing medical treatment. For older adults, that often means emotional and social support — delivered through personalised care plans and community initiatives.
Common types of mental health support within social care include:
- Counselling or talking therapy referrals.
- Social activities and befriending services.
- Crisis support and safeguarding for vulnerable individuals.
- Residential or day centre programmes for people with dementia or depression.
- Collaboration with NHS community mental health teams.
The Connection Between NHS and Social Care
While the NHS provides medical treatment for mental health conditions, social care helps people manage the daily effects of those conditions. Both systems are designed to complement one another.
A local authority may coordinate with NHS mental health services to ensure continuous care for example, following hospital discharge or diagnosis of a cognitive disorder.
Key Services Supporting Older Adults’ Mental Health
| Service Type | Description | Delivered By |
|---|---|---|
| Community Mental Health Teams (CMHTs) | Provide assessments, crisis intervention, and therapy for adults with serious mental illness. | NHS and local authorities (jointly managed). |
| Social Prescribing | Links individuals to non-clinical services such as volunteering, art therapy, or group exercise. | GPs, local councils, or voluntary organisations. |
| Dementia Support Services | Offer memory assessments, cognitive therapy, and carer guidance. | NHS trusts and council-funded programmes. |
| Reablement and Home Support | Short-term help for older adults recovering from mental or physical health setbacks. | Local authority care teams. |
| Carer Support and Respite Care | Emotional and practical assistance for family members supporting someone with mental illness. | Local authorities and charities. |
| Advocacy and Safeguarding | Ensures vulnerable individuals have their rights respected and are protected from neglect or abuse. | Independent advocates and local councils. |
The Role of the Care Act 2014
The Care Act 2014 requires local authorities to consider mental health equally to physical health in all assessments. It emphasises prevention, early intervention, and the promotion of well-being.
This means that during a care assessment, the local authority must evaluate emotional and psychological needs — not just practical support — when determining eligibility for services.
Accessing Mental Health and Social Care Support
To begin the process:
-
Contact your GP or local council to request a care assessment or mental health referral.
-
A social worker or mental health practitioner will evaluate your needs.
-
You may be referred to a community mental health team or offered a personal care plan tailored to your situation.
Support can include home visits, social activities, therapy sessions, and carer assistance.
Challenges in 2025
Demand for mental health services among older adults continues to rise. The main challenges include:
-
Underdiagnosis of depression and anxiety in the elderly.
-
Staff shortages in both health and social care sectors.
-
Fragmented coordination between NHS and local authorities.
To address these issues, the UK government and charities are investing in integrated care systems (ICSs) and digital well-being programmes to make access faster and more consistent.
FAQ – Mental Health and Social Care for Older Adults
Who is responsible for supporting mental health in older adults?
Both the NHS and local authorities share responsibility. The NHS provides medical treatment, while local councils offer social support and coordination.
Can older adults access free mental health support?
Yes. NHS mental health services are free, and social care support may be funded or subsidised depending on your financial assessment.
What mental health conditions are most common in later life?
Depression, anxiety, and dementia are among the most prevalent conditions affecting people over 65.
How can social care help someone with dementia?
Social care can arrange day centres, home support, cognitive stimulation programmes, and respite care for carers.
What should I do if I’m worried about a relative’s mental health?
Contact your GP or local authority to request a care assessment or mental health referral as soon as possible.
Need help finding a care home?
Senior Home Plus offers free personalized guidance to help you find a care facility that suits your health needs, budget, and preferred location in the UK.
Call us at 0203 608 0055 to get expert assistance today.
Share this article :
Latest posts
You are looking for an establishment for your loved one ?
Get availability & prices
Fill in this form and receive
all the essential information
We would like to inform you of the existence of the opposition list for telephone canvassing.
