October Health – 2025 Report

65 Or Older Demographic in Kenya

For the age group 65 or older in Kenya, the leading causes of stress often include: 1. **Financial Insecurity**: Many older adults rely on limited resources or lack a sustainable income, causing anxiety about daily living expenses. 2. **Health Issues**: Chronic illnesses, lack of access to quality healthcare, and physical decline create significant stress. 3. **Social Isolation**: With changing family dynamics and urbanisation, older adults may experience loneliness or reduced familial support. 4. **Changing Roles in Society**: Feeling marginalized or losing a sense of purpose can add to psychological stress. 5. **Cultural Shifts**: As traditional values shift, older adults may struggle to adapt to modern lifestyles or feel disconnected from younger generations. If companies want to extend support to older populations, group discussions like October’s digital sessions could foster community and resilience-building in this demographic where applicable.

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How mental health affects the 65 Or Older demographic differently

Stresses Affecting the Age Group 65 or Older More Than Other Ages

  1. Health-Related Concerns

    • Chronic illnesses or physical limitations.
    • Fear of declining mobility or cognitive abilities.
    • Managing multiple medical appointments or medications.

  2. Financial Stress

    • Limited or fixed income from pensions or savings.
    • Rising healthcare costs or unexpected expenses.
    • Worries about outliving their retirement funds.

  3. Social Isolation and Loneliness

    • Loss of friends or a partner due to age.
    • Reduced social networks and fewer opportunities for connection.
    • Physical limitations preventing participation in activities.

  4. Purpose and Identity

    • Struggles with transitioning out of the workforce and loss of career identity.
    • Difficulty finding meaningful activities or ways to contribute to society.

  5. Fear of Dependency

    • Anxiety about becoming a burden on family members.
    • Fear of losing independence and entering assisted living facilities.

  6. Technological Changes

    • Challenges adapting to rapidly evolving digital technologies.
    • Feeling excluded due to gaps in digital literacy.

Workplace-Relevant Suggestions for Employers or Communities:

  • Offer access to mental health support, such as October's digital group sessions or therapy, to help them cope with isolation, health concerns, or financial anxiety.
  • Provide opportunities for seniors to share their expertise or mentor younger employees, fostering purpose and identity.
  • Create accessible programs that enhance social connections and reduce loneliness.

These stresses reflect common experiences and should be addressed with a mix of support systems tailored to this age group.

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.

October for Businesses