On the publication of the Royal College of Psychiatrists' collaboration with Independent Age on a new report highlighting mental health discrimination of older people, George McNamara, Director of Policy and Influencing at Independent Age, said:
"Although we know that many people wrongly think depression is an inevitable part of ageing, this doesn’t mean that they are more likely to get help.
"Older people should be able to access mental health treatment and support at the same level as everyone else, but typically this is not the case. Older people's mental health remains a taboo subject. We all need to overcome ageist attitudes that disadvantage older people and give greater recognition to depression and anxiety which can exacerbate loneliness and social isolation. Something that can be easily prevented if older people are listened to and get the help they need.
The forthcoming NHS ten-year plan is a prime opportunity to address the growing need for mental health services for an increasing older population."