90.1 FM San Luis Obispo | 91.7 FM Paso Robles | 91.1 FM Cayucos | 95.1 FM Lompoc | 90.9 FM Avila
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
KNBX (north county KCBX) is currently off the air due to a PG&E service interruption.

Mental Health and Aging

Broadcast date: 5/14/2015

Mental illness, such as depression, is very common in older adults. Mental illness in an older adult can go untreated and unnoticed because people often dismiss it as a normal part of aging, or at times symptoms are associated with other medical conditions.  

The needs of older adults with mental illness are very unique, and finding the right care can be challenging. Limited resources are available to address both the psychological and physiological symptoms that often accompany aging with a mental illness. Also, groups who have been historically isolated often do not seek help. The good news is that when treated, symptoms of mental illness in older adults can greatly improve and individuals can live a fulfilling life. Building awareness, understanding, and compassion will help ensure our older adults do not suffer in silence.

How does depression differ in older adults? What can I do to help a loved one who is experiencing a mental health crisis? Why are LGBT seniors at greater risk?

Join host Kris Kington-Barker as she speaks with Traci Mello, Director of Senior Services, with Wilshire Community Services, Dr. Belinda Morrill, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, with specialties in Geropsychology and Neuropsychology, and Tauria Linala, with the Senior Advocacy program for The Gay And Lesbian Alliance of the Central Coast (GALA) as they discuss mental health issues in older adults , the unique needs of an aging population and what we, as a community, can do to support older adults.

Central Coast Voices is sponsored by ACTION for Healthy Communities in collaboration with KCBX and made possible through underwriting by Joan Gellert-Sargen

Kris Kington-Barker is co-host of Central Coast Voices, heard every Thursday on KCBX from 1:00—12:00 p.m. Kris has worked in healthcare fields ranging from mental health to hospital administration, and has served as a volunteer and board member for many Central Coast non-profit organizations.