October Health – 2024 Report
65 Or Older Demographic in Kenya
For the population aged 65 or older in Kenya, the leading causes of stress typically include financial insecurity, health-related issues, and social isolation. Many in this age group might face challenges due to inadequate pension systems, increasing healthcare costs, and limited access to healthcare services. Additionally, as family dynamics shift and younger generations move to urban areas, older adults may experience loneliness and a lack of social support. These factors are prevalent contributors to stress among the elderly population in Kenya.
How mental health affects the 65 Or Older demographic differently
-
Health Concerns: This age group often faces more frequent health issues, leading to stress about medical care, potential disabilities, and the aging process itself.
-
Retirement and Financial Security: Concerns about whether savings and pensions will adequately cover their needs during retirement can be a significant stressor.
-
Social Isolation: As people retire and possibly experience the loss of peers through death, their social networks may shrink, leading to loneliness and isolation.
-
Dependence and Loss of Independence: Needing assistance for daily tasks or making difficult decisions about moving into assisted living could create stress due to perceived or actual loss of independence.
-
Grief and Loss: This age group may experience more frequent losses of loved ones, leading to grief that can be stressful and emotionally taxing.
-
Cognitive Decline: Worries about memory loss or cognitive decline, as well as conditions like dementia, can be a source of stress.
In the context of workplace-related stresses, if individuals in this age group are still working or returning to work, they may experience stress related to adapting to new technologies or age discrimination. In this scenario, encouraging involvement in supportive community resources, such as October's digital group sessions, can help manage mental health effectively.
Data from October Health
What's driving mental health stresses for the 65 Or Older demographic in South African?
Proactive mental fitness for high performance staff.
Understand the stresses and workplace challenges of your staff and provide them with the tools to protect their productivity and mental health.