About older adults
Psychological support for older adults addresses loneliness, grief, adapting to retirement or illness, memory concerns and caring for a partner. Many professionals also offer sessions at home or online.
Nutritionists and dietitians help people improve their eating with plans adapted to their health, age and goals. In mental health they work on eating disorders, the relationship with food and body image, and the nutrition of children, adolescents and older adults, usually together with the psychologist or doctor. The title and its regulation vary by country; profiles show each professional’s training and registration.
Getting mental health care in the United States
Public health system · No single public system (Medicaid, Medicare, community mental health centers)
There is no universal public mental health service. People with low incomes may be covered by Medicaid, older adults by Medicare, and publicly funded community mental health centers and treatment facilities can be located through the federal SAMHSA locator. More information
Insurance and coverage
Federal parity law (MHPAEA) requires most group health plans that cover mental health to do so on terms no more restrictive than for physical health; deductibles, copays and in-network rules still apply.
Online therapy in the United States
The clinician must normally be licensed in the state where the patient is located. Psychologists in PSYPACT member states may practice telepsychology across those states.
Urgent help in the United States
If your life or someone else's is in danger, call the emergency number now. These services can help at any time:
- 911 · Emergency (911)
- 988 · 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Information reviewed in November 2026 · Sources: findtreatment.gov, docinfo.org
Signs to look out for
Ageing brings changes, but persistent sadness, loss of interest, anxiety, withdrawal or irritability are not an inevitable part of getting older. It may be worth seeking help after losses such as bereavement, retirement or loss of independence, when loneliness is weighing heavily, or when there are noticeable changes in memory, orientation or behaviour that worry the person or their family.
What helps: treatments and professionals
Psychological therapies such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, problem-solving therapy and reminiscence or life-review therapy are effective for older adults with depression or anxiety. Neuropsychologists assess memory concerns and design cognitive stimulation. Psychologists, psychiatrists with experience in older people, occupational therapists and social workers often work together, and family carers can also receive support and guidance.
When to seek urgent help
Sudden confusion, drowsiness, difficulty speaking, weakness on one side or a fall with injury need immediate medical attention: contact your local emergency services. Seek urgent help too if an older person expresses thoughts of suicide, stops eating or drinking, or if you suspect abuse or neglect. Reviewing medication with a doctor is important when behaviour changes.
What you can do in the meantime
Staying connected matters: regular contact with family, friends, neighbours or community groups helps protect mood. Keep routines with daily activity, walks, meals and sleep, and continue hobbies or learn new ones. Check hearing and vision, since difficulties can increase isolation. Carers should also look after themselves and ask for help, as caring can be exhausting.
What does a nutritionist do?
A nutritionist or dietitian assesses how you eat, your health, routine and preferences, and builds with you a realistic plan to eat in a way that supports your body and wellbeing. Beyond meal plans, they teach you to read hunger and fullness, plan shopping and meals, and adapt food to illnesses, medication, pregnancy, sport or age. In mental health they are key members of the team that treats eating disorders.
When to see a nutritionist
It makes sense to see a nutritionist if food has become a source of worry or guilt, if you restrict, binge or compensate, if you need to change your diet for a health condition, or if a child, teenager or older relative is not eating well. If there is significant weight loss, fainting, vomiting or other physical warning signs, see a doctor first or at the same time.
How to choose
When choosing, check the licence and training, the approach they use and whether they have experience with what you need. Consider practical aspects too: language, price, location or online sessions and availability. The relationship with the professional matters a great deal; if after a few sessions it does not feel right, it is fine to change.
Frequently asked questions
Does the public health system in the United States cover psychological care?
There is no universal public mental health service. People with low incomes may be covered by Medicaid, older adults by Medicare, and publicly funded community mental health centers and treatment facilities can be located through the federal SAMHSA locator.
Can I have online therapy in the United States?
The clinician must normally be licensed in the state where the patient is located. Psychologists in PSYPACT member states may practice telepsychology across those states.