Mental Health Services for Older Hispanics/Latinos: Incorporating Culture and Context Into Clinical Approaches to Care

This article discusses older Latinos and their use of mental health services. A brief history of utilization and the contributing factors, including access to services, barriers, and acceptability of mental health services, are included. Sekhon et al.’s theoretical framework of acceptability is discussed in the context of Latino clients. The authors adapt the framework and apply the elements to work with older Latinos and their families. Common stereotypes and faulty assumptions about older Latinos are examined as the Latino population grows and changes in levels of education, language, family structure, roles, religion, and alternative practices continue. Core values for working with older Latinos are identified to ensure a culturally responsive approach for providing mental health care for older Latinos.