Mental
Health
Mental
health is not easy to define, but aging successfully
should include good mental health. This does not
mean that an older person never experiences any
problems or disease, but that symptoms are treated
and controlled, and do not interfere with leading
a rewarding life.
Mental disorders
are not part of normal aging. Circumstances that
can contribute to the development of mental health
disorders in older adults include social isolation,
stressful living conditions, bereavement, acute
and chronice health conditions, and the burden of
having to take care of a seriously impaired family
member. Many older people develop mental health
problems for the first time when they are in their
later years. It is important to remember that these
problems are treatable.
Community Mental Health Centers receive
state and local funds to provide mental health services
to individuals in their provider area. The have
sliding-scale fees and accept Medicaid, Medicare,
private insurance and private pay. Kansas has 27
Community Health Centers (CMHCs),with 2 affiliates.
The Kansas Department on Aging (KDOA)
and The Kansas Department of Social and Rehabilitation
Services (SRS) publishes "A Mental Health Guide
For Older Kansans And Their Families".
You may request a copy from JAAA
at 785-235-1367 or email at info@jhawkaaa.org
or go directly to Kansas Depatment on Aging, click
HERE.
