If you or someone close to you is in distress or immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000) as soon as possible.
If you would like to get in touch about a non-urgent enquiry, please complete our contact form.
Our older adult mental health services
Our older adult mental health services bring together specialised therapies and treatments to support the emotional and psychological wellbeing of older people. We provide care for a range of concerns including depression, anxiety disorders, grief and loss, social isolation, neurocognitive disorders including dementia, and behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia.
While maintaining physical health is often a focus as we age, emotional wellbeing and mental health are equally important to living well in later life.
According to the Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing approximately one in 12 people aged 65 and over in Australia are living with dementia, with prevalence increasing significantly with age.
It’s important to recognise that conditions such as depression and anxiety are not a normal part of ageing. With the right care and support, they can be effectively managed, helping individuals maintain quality of life, independence and functional capacity.
Common conditions in older adults
At St John of God Health Care we provide assessment, treatment and support for a range of mental health conditions affecting older adults, including:
- depression
- anxiety disorders
- late-life mood disorders, including recurrent depression
- social isolation and loneliness
- dementia and other neurocognitive disorders
- delirium, particularly in hospital settings
- challenging behaviours, including behavioural and psychological symptoms in dementia (BPSD)
- substance use concerns, including alcohol and prescription medications
- suicidal thoughts and self-harm risk.
Early assessment and intervention are strongly recommended, as outcomes are significantly improved when concerns are identified and treated promptly.
Our older adult mental health treatment programs
We encourage you or your loved one to explore the treatment options and support programs offered by our experienced specialists and health professionals. A good first step is speaking with your GP about a referral to one of our programs.
We recognise that every individual is unique. Our programs are person-centred and recovery-oriented, designed to support you on your journey towards improved mental health and wellbeing.
By working closely with your GP, family and community supports, we develop a comprehensive, multidisciplinary treatment plan aligned with your personal goals and needs.
Inpatient programs
Our inpatient programs are designed to support you in managing your symptoms and improving your overall wellbeing. These programs aim to:
- Build understanding of the ageing process and its impact on mental health.
- Increase awareness of how lifestyle factors influence mood and wellbeing.
- Develop practical skills to manage stress and enhance coping strategies.
- Support adjustment to the physical, social and emotional challenges associated with mental health conditions.
- Encourage meaningful social connection and reduce loneliness.
- Provide medication review and optimisation where appropriate.
- Reduce the risk of relapse and support safe discharge planning and continuity of care.
Outpatient programs
We offer group-based outpatient day programs that provide ongoing treatment and support. These programs are designed to strengthen your internal and external resources, helping you navigate life’s changes and challenges as you age.
Our team approach brings together psychiatrists, psychologists, geriatricians, mental health nurses and allied health caregivers. We work in partnership with you, and where appropriate, your family to develop a structured, evidence-based therapeutic plan tailored to your individual needs.
Find a psychiatrist
Our psychiatrists provide compassionate specialist mental health support for a range of conditions.
Search psychiatrists
Benefits of treatment
Seeking support through St John of God Health Care offers a range of benefits, including:
- Personalised care plans tailored to your individual needs.
- Access to a multidisciplinary team of experienced health professionals.
- Goal-oriented and recovery-focused treatment plans.
- Ongoing communication and involvement of your family and support network, where appropriate.
- Improved quality of life, symptom reduction and enhanced independence.
- Outcomes will vary depending on your individual circumstances and level of participation. We recommend consulting with a specialist to determine the most appropriate treatment options for you.
Locations
In the community
Community mental wellbeing services across New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia.
Mental health enquiries
It’s important to get the right treatment for your needs.
If you’re experiencing a crisis or emergency, please call Triple Zero (000) for emergency services or visit our emergency assistance page to find more crisis services.
If you’re feeling that something isn’t right but it’s not an emergency, you can take the first step by sending us an enquiry.