Depression and mental health in care homes for older people

About five per cent of – generally very frail – older people live in long-term care in the

UK; approximately a fifth of all deaths occur in care homes. Depression and dementia are

prevalent mental health conditions in care homes; depression is reported in around a third

of residents and dementia in two thirds. While there is some evidence about efficacy of

medication in treating psychiatric and behavioural symptoms among residents, much less is

known about the potential role of psychosocial interventions in enhancing mental health and

quality of life. Quality of care varies widely across the carehome sector including support

from primary and specialist health and quality and level of training. In terms of enhancing

care quality, there is evidence that investing in staff training and conditions, establishing

good links with healthcare providers, and developing care standards that genuinely

promote good practice are likely to improve resident quality of life. This is an exciting area

for research development and practice innovation for the future; taking account of users

perspective, holds particular potential.