Funding to continue older adult mental health

26 Oct 2018

26 October 2018

The funding is being provided over the next five years and enables public patients aged 65 and over with acute mental health issues to continue to have access to mental health care at the hospital.

St John of God Mt Lawley Hospital acting Chief Executive Officer Vanessa Unwin said the funding would also expand the service to increase its admission hours, increase access to consultants and stronger links to psychiatry services provided at St John of God Midland Public Hospital.

“We welcome this funding announcement as it will give our community more opportunity to be admitted to our hospital for treatment, care and support,” she said.

“Our Ursula Frayne Unit has provided older adult mental health care for 18 years, with our experienced clinicians focused on helping patients manage their symptoms and understand their condition to they can maintain good emotional wellbeing and a healthy lifestyle.

“We look forward to providing this essential care now and into the future.”

Mental Health Minister Roger Cook said this service was one way the State Government could help older Western Australians experiencing mental health issues to enable them to continue to live their lives to the fullest.

“We want to see all Western Australians thrive and live mentally health lives,” he said.

“The State Government recognises the important role of specialist mental health services for older Western Australians and is continuing to work with service providers on all levels to increase mental health support available to all Western Australians."