Mental Health in Later Life

“This book is a tour de force of many years of academic scholarship and research. It is destined to become a classic in the field.” The British Journal of Social Work

“Mental Health in Later Life is a comprehensive body of work that challenges previous conceptualisations of “older age”… all people working in policy, practice, research and academia will gain many insights and benefits from the wide angled lens of Professor Milne’s book.” International Journal of Ageing and Later Life

“A well-written and well-researched book that leads to conceptualizing mental health and wellness in later life through a different lens.” Canadian Journal on Aging

“This ambitious book offers an innovative, scholarly approach to our understanding of mental health in later life. Integrating a life course perspective with an examination of factors that compromise or support the mental well-being of older adults, the book challenges our received wisdom in terms of research, policy and practice.” Christina Victor, Brunel University London

“Milne delivers a thoughtfully considered examination of mental health and later life. She exposes the complex and varied textures of people’s lives into older age that impact well-being. A highly readable text relevant for all health and social care students and practitioners.” Mary Pat Sullivan, Nipissing University

“Professor Milne has produced an original and accessible analysis of a cutting-edge topic in later life. Definitely recommended for those learning about, researching and working for or with this population.” Mary Larkin, The Open University

“By taking a life course approach and focusing on inequalities this book makes a new and very important contribution to the literature on mental health in later life.” Toby Williamson, University of West London

“I cannot think of anyone better equipped to take on the challenge of exploring the complex topic of mental health in later life than Alisoun Milne. She combines academic knowledge and research with her roots in social work, her capacity to stimulate critical thinking and her commitment to addressing inequalities and promoting social justice.” Tom Dening, University of Nottingham

Alisoun Milne is Professor of Social Gerontology and Social Work at the University of Kent. She has a long standing practice and academic interest in mental health in later life.

Foreword by Judith Phillips

Introduction

Demography, topography and mental health problems in later life

Mental health, psychological well-being, successful ageing and quality of life

The life course, inequalities and mental health in later life

The impact of age-related risks and inequalities on mental health in later life

Socio-economic disadvantage and poverty

Abuse, mistreatment and neglect

The fourth age, frailty and transitions

The mental health and well-being of people living with dementia

Conceptualising dementia

Promotion and prevention

Conclusion