How to improve the inclusion of the elderly in the local community for better mental health?

Abstract Issue/problem Social exclusion, ageism and low health/digital literacy intertwine with growing trends in mental disorders, including abuse in Slovenian elderly. To cope with these issues, besides rising competencies, there is a need for stable and continuous partnerships of all relevant stakeholders in the local communities. Description of the problem Despite previous efforts of the Interdisciplinary Working Group (IWG) for mental health promotion in the elderly (established according to the Resolution of the National Mental Health Program, 2018-2028), there was a need for reconsidering approaches in the next Action plan (2024-2028). A national conference on decreasing social exclusion in the elderly contributed as a road map. Results Previous activities (events in the local communities, supported materials) were upgraded with a broad destigmatization campaign, (recruitment of the >>ambassadors <<) and collection of culturally adapted good practices. Better availability of information through >>info-spots << and easier participation of the elderly in cultural events was enabled. Activities of the reinforced IWG were promoted. Lessons Empowerment of key actors and their continuous cooperation could improve information flow, competencies, the inclusion of the elderly in the local community, and decrease ageism and discrimination. Developing local strategies with the crucial involvement of elderly representatives is the opportunity for more intensive and better cooperation between local policy/stakeholders, public health experts, and the target population. Regular financial support will prevent additional inequities. Key messages • The empowered, connected, and proactive community is key to preventing the elderly’s exclusion. • Approaches should be fresh, accessible, and tailored to the heterogeneous population.