Background/Objectives: Mental health conditions are highly prevalent among older adults, and they are associated with adverse health trajectories. There is a considerable gap in mental health care access in this group. It is important to examine factors that affect mental health care access from the perspective of older adults. This study aimed to understand factors that affect mental health care access from the perspective of older adults who are primary care users in Chile. Methods: Sixty-two people aged 62 to 88 participated in eight focus groups (5–11 participants per group) conducted in community settings in Santiago. The focus groups were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Framework analysis was carried out. Results: Facilitators and barriers for accessing mental health care were organized around five themes: (1) Life transitions in older age, (2) Representations of mental health in older age, (3) Pertinence of mental health programs to older adults’ needs, (4) Organization of health services, (5) Health providers’ skills. Conclusions: From a primary care policy perspective, it is critical to move beyond mental health program availability and implement an integrated care approach with adequate funding, specialized training, and person-centered protocols. Challenges associated with life transitions and specific needs expressed by older adults should be considered in person-centered care plans.
Moreno et al. (Thu,) studied this question.