Mental health interventions for older adults in South Asia: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: Mental health (MH) among older adults is becoming a growing public health concern in South Asia due to constant changing in population dynamics caused by declining fertility and increasing life expectancy. This scoping review aims to explore and summarize available evidence about MH interventions evaluating their impact on geriatric mental disorders and highlight gaps and areas in future research. Method: We searched six electronic databases and additional sources for observational/experimental studies evaluating the impact on geriatric mental health in eight countries in the South Asia region. Results: From a total of 3432 potential articles that were retrieved, 19 were included in this review following pre-determined eligibility criteria. Across studies, MH interventions can be broadly categorized into the following types – 1) traditional yoga, Ayurveda, or other meditative movements, 2) behavioral, occupational, or learning-based interventions, 3) few digital or tech-based interventions, 4) music therapy, 5) evaluation of a new Healthcare model. The evidence is predominantly based on India, whereas only three articles are identified from Pakistan. No evidence is found from other six South Asian countries. Depression and anxiety are the most frequent MH outcomes, followed by quality of life, cognitive function, self-esteem, physical performance, and many other components. Conclusion: Handful of evidence on MH intervention in South Asia indicates a lack of acknowledgment that may develop a serious paucity in geriatric MH practice. Future researchers are encouraged to conduct empirical studies to understand disease burden, including associated factors of geriatric MH, which may help to construct contextually appropriate MH interventions.