Spanish elderly report difficulties accessing mental health resources

A national study conducted by the Observatorio Social of Fundación la Caixa, in collaboration with the University of Valencia and the Polytechnic University of Valencia, reveals that approximately 45% of older adults in Spain find it difficult or very difficult to access mental health resources.

The research, which surveyed 1,411 individuals between the ages of 60 and 75, highlights significant barriers to psychological and psychiatric care, including telephone helplines and support associations. The study notes that while women tend to show more psychological openness and a higher predisposition to seek help, social stigma and generational beliefs remain obstacles.

Findings indicate that the perception of difficulty varies by age within this demographic. Approximately 52% of those aged 60 to 64 reported complications in accessing services, a figure that decreases to 42% for those aged 65 to 69, and further to 38.7% for the 70 to 75 age group. Researchers suggest that younger seniors may have higher expectations of access or a greater awareness of existing barriers compared to older generations.