Voices of Ageing: A Cross-Sectional Assessment of Mental Health among Older Adults Attending an Outpatient Department

Abstract

Introduction: Mental health is an important component of healthy ageing, as older adults may experience psychological difficulties associated with chronic illness, functional limitations, social changes and other age-related challenges. Early identification of psychological distress can facilitate timely supportive care. The present study assessed the level of psychological distress among older adults attending an outpatient department in selected hospitals in Salem, Tamil Nadu.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was adopted among 60 older adults aged 60 years and above attending selected outpatient departments in Salem during July 2026. Participants were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a socio-demographic questionnaire and the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). The GHQ-12 was administered using the authorised version and scored using the Likert method (0–1–2–3), with total scores ranging from 0 to 36. Higher scores indicated greater psychological distress. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants, and confidentiality and privacy were maintained.

Results: Among the 60 participants, 32 (53.3%) experienced moderate psychological distress, 16 (26.7%) experienced high psychological distress, and 12 (20.0%) reported no psychological distress. Thus, 80.0% of the participants demonstrated some degree of psychological distress based on the study classification.

Conclusion: Psychological distress was common among older adults attending outpatient services, with the majority experiencing moderate psychological distress. Routine screening for psychological distress using brief validated instruments such as the GHQ-12 may support early identification of older adults requiring further assessment and appropriate psychosocial or clinical interventions. Integrating mental health assessment into routine geriatric outpatient care may contribute to more comprehensive and person-centred health care.