Mental Health Services Structure: The Case of Older Puerto Ricans in Senior Centers

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis study examined 2 different structures (referral vs. integrated) of mental health service delivery and how they influence awareness of mental health by Puerto Rican older adults in community senior centers. Surveys on mental health awareness were conducted with Puerto Rican older adults (n = 167) utilizing senior centers and comparing results between a senior center in Puerto Rico (referral) and another in New York City (integrated), both serving a large Puerto Rican population. Findings indicate that the structure of mental health service is greater for mental health awareness among Puerto Ricans in the integrated location, where Puerto Rican older adults had greater exposure and access to mental health information and services. Two factors—age and mental health impairment—added strength to the regression model. Results indicate that service delivery organizations, regardless of location, need to become more aware of their inner structures and the factors that relate to better serving their client population. Better integration of the delivery of mental health services for older Puerto Ricans could benefit from a focused intervention using mental health education to help participants identify mental health needs.