The mental health in older people cannot remain invisible. Globally, 2 out of 10 older people have had suicidal thoughts. In Peru, in 2024 alone, MINSA treated more than 45,000 cases of depression in older adults. We are talking about a public health problem that cannot wait.
Many times it is thought that sadness or loneliness are a natural part of this stage of life. They aren’t. depression in older people is treatable and, with support, can be overcome. Detecting it in time and accompanying the treatment means restoring dignity, hope and the will to live.
That is why, at Socios En Salud (SES) we have created an intervention model that combines early diagnosis, comprehensive treatment and community accompaniment. Our goal is clear: that no elderly person faces depression alone.
What does SES do to improve the mental health of the elderly?
Socios En Salud has been working for 29 years accompanying vulnerable communities in Peru. In the field of mental health, its work with the elderly has shown that depression can be treated effectively when three essential components are integrated:
- Timely diagnosis. Early detection is key. SES conducts assessments in health centers and also in the community, which allows for the identification of cases that would otherwise remain hidden.
- Comprehensive treatment. An older person with depression needs a comprehensive approach. SES facilitates access to psychological therapy and, when necessary, medication. This treatment seeks to alleviate symptoms and restore autonomy, always with a humane and respectful approach.
- Community support. The most valuable difference of this model is its proximity. Through home visits, follow-up calls and family workshops, SES ensures that the older person does not interrupt their treatment and feels supported at every step.
This year, through our campaign “Depression doesn’t wait. Neither do we”, we seek to bring this model to more older adults in need.
How can you collaborate?
Caring for mental health in older people is a collective task. You can also be part of the change:
- With S/20 you help an elderly person with depression receive a home visit.
- With S/50 you finance a psychological therapy session.
- With S/80 you provide emergency care in case of suicidal thoughts.
Scan the QR code of Yape or make your contribution to the number +51 996 290 868. Every contribution goes directly to those who need it most.
Also, you can collaborate by spreading reliable information about mental health, talking in your community and helping to break the stigma. Talking about depression in older adults is opening the door for more adults to seek help without fear or shame.
Every bit, no matter how small it may seem, adds up. Your collaboration can mean that an older person can laugh again, to leave home, to feel accompanied. And, above all, it can mean that a life is saved.
Every contribution, no matter how small, adds up.
