Question

Stigma around receiving mental health care is rare for older adults, even as it continues to rise in the general population.

a) True
b) False

Answer 1

The claim that stigma around mental health care is rare for older adults while rising in the general population is false. Older adults may indeed face significant stigma, which affects their mental health care. Stigmatization can be exacerbated by societal views and discrimination, reducing the quality of care and deterring help-seeking behavior.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that stigma around receiving mental health care is rare for older adults is false. Contrary to the notion that stigma is declining among the elderly, they may actually face more stigma. According to Gary (2005), stigma creates a barrier to mental health care across different ethnic minorities and by extension, can affect older adults as well. Erving Goffman's work from 1963 highlights the broad societal impact of stigma, suggesting illness can lead to undesirable social views, which certainly extends to mental health conditions.

This view is supported by others such as Sartorius (2007) who point out that societal and healthcare discrimination against mental disorders can lead to lesser quality of care and facilities, possibly deterring individuals from seeking help.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, the number of Americans seeking mental health support rose, indicating increased recognition of mental health issues and possibly an increased attempt to overcome stigma (Chen, ch. 2). Furthermore, older adults face their own unique challenges and stigmas linked to aging that can impact their willingness and ability to seek mental health care (Graham 2021).

Answer 2

The claim that stigma around receiving mental health care is rare for older adults is false. Research indicates that stigma is still a significant barrier to mental health care for the elderly, as it is for other groups. Addressing mental health-related stigma is crucial for improving access to services for all ages.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement that stigma around receiving mental health care is rare for older adults, even as it continues to rise in the general population, is false. Research, including Gary's study from 2005, has demonstrated that stigma remains a significant barrier to mental health care among various populations, including ethnic minorities and the elderly. Social stigmas can be a powerful force, as sociologist Erving Goffman noted, leading to the marginalization of those with mental illnesses, which often results in an unwillingness to seek necessary care.

Studies also suggest that the stigmatization of mental health issues and the resultant discrimination can have a substantial impact on the quality and accessibility of healthcare facilities and services for those suffering. Additionally, the social perceptions of aging can compel older adults to avoid seeking help, tying into a larger cultural stigmatization of weakness or dependency.

It is critical to address this stigma at both interpersonal and macro levels to improve help-seeking behaviors among older adults and the general population. Efforts to understand and combat mental health-related stigma must take into account the unique experiences and perceptions of different age groups, including the elderly, to ensure equitable access to mental health services.