May is Older Americans Month, which is a time to recognize the contributions of older adults and aging trends in the US.  This year’s theme is “Champion Your Health” and it encourages older adults to take an active role in managing their health, educate themselves, access preventive care, and make informed decisions that support their independence. May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, which raises awareness about mental health conditions and highlights support for individuals with these conditions in their communities of choice. The theme for this year’s Mental Health Awareness Month is “More Good Days, Together” and it encourages everyone to reflect on what a “good” day looks like for themselves and for their communities.

As these observances come together, we are sharing resources to help older adults with mental health conditions to champion their health and support their independence and community participation. Older adults with mental health conditions may need help and encouragement to access preventive healthcare and other resources to take care of their mental and physical health. The NIDILRR community conducts research and development and helps educate communities about aging with mental health conditions and the support and resources available to older adults with mental health conditions, their families, and their communities. Here are just a few of the evidence-based resources they offer:

• The Rehabilitation Research and Training Center (RRTC) on Aging Among Adults with Serious Mental Health Conditions conducts a coordinated program of research and knowledge translation activities that builds an evidence base on supporting individuals to live as vibrant elders in recovery (SILVER). This RRTC has developed:
  • Series of SILVER Ask Me Anything Webinars
  • SILVER Facts issue briefs
• The RRTC on Health and Function Among People with Serious Mental Health Conditions focuses on advancing knowledge and use of innovative models to promote health and recovery for people with mental health conditions throughout their lifespan. This RRTC created:
  • A suite of integrated health and mental health care tools that promote physical health and wellness among adults in mental health recovery.
  • A suite of tools that promote self-directed recovery in programs and in one’s own life
• The Temple University RRTC on Community Living and Participation of Individuals with Serious Mental Illnesses (TU Collaborative) advances the development of interventions and resources that maximize the health of adults with mental health conditions as they age in their communities. The TU Collaborative produces resources, guides, and webinars that promote physical activity and wellness among adults with mental health conditions as they age:
  • Beginning an Exercise Program: Factsheet for Consumers (PDF) and for Providers (PDF)
  • Get Moving! The Importance of Physical Activity video
  • Yoga and Your Health (PDF)

For more information on these and other products from the NIDILRR community, please contact NARIC’s information specialists.