Defining the Role of the Fire and Rescue Service in Mental Health Support for Older Adults: A Qualitative Study.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Anxiety and depression in older adults (60+ years of age) are under-diagnosed and under-treated. Older adults are less likely to seek help for these problems due to a lack of awareness, difficulty accessing health care due to availability or disability and fear of loss of independence. Existing points of contact between older adults and non-traditional services, for example, the Fire and Rescue Service (FRS), could provide opportunities to support help-seeking for mental ill-health. The FRS conduct Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSVs) with older adults and are well positioned to provide health-related support. This study examines a range of perspectives on the potential role of the FRS in the identification of, and signposting for, anxiety and depression in older adults.

SUBMITTER: Fisher T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11411195 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature