Improving mental health in later life: the role of service user involvement

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to describe service user involvement, explain some of the key issues that define, affect or protect mental health in later life and show how involvement may contribute to better mental health in later life. Design/methodology/approach The paper reviews existing definitions of involvement and mental health in later life; provides a more detailed review of some examples of involvement at a range of levels and illustrates how these could have a positive impact on mental health. Findings Active involvement and engagement at all levels offers significant opportunities for older people to protect and improve their own mental health and the mental health of society as a whole. Research limitations/implications This research does not set out to promote any particular intervention or involvement technique. The examples given have been evaluated in a variety of ways. Practical implications Service user involvement should be considered as an important potential contributor to mental health in later life. Social implications The paper encourages people in later life to be considered as a community resource rather than a problem that needs to be solved. Originality/value This paper brings together existing research with a focus on the relationship between involvement and individual and collective mental health.