Despite the longstanding misconceptions about aging - that growing old would lead to despair and depression - the vast majority of individuals do not experience mental health problems such as depression in later life. Mental health difficulties are not part of aging the aging process. In fact, most older people feel satisfied with their lives.
Nevertheless, some older adults do experience mental health difficulties. The most common disorders, in order of prevalence, are anxiety problems (e.g., phobias and obsessive-compulsive disorder) and mood disorders, such as clinical depression.
For more information on mental health in later life, please check out the following resources:
Canadian Mental Health Association
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
Canadian Coalition for Seniors Mental Health
Adapted from: Family Caregivers' Network Society, Resource Guide for Family Caregivers, 2006.