Depression affects between 15 and 20% of older adults in Mexico, a proportion that is more than double the global level, which stands at 7%. Specialists based on figures from the National Institute of Older Adults (Inapam) warned about this situation.
Additionally, it is estimated that in 2050, there will be more than 3.5 million people affected by dementia in Mexico, a figure higher than in Europe or other North American countries. Luis Miguel Gutiérrez, a physician and former director of the National Institute of Geriatrics, expressed his concern by mentioning that suicide is also a relevant problem among older adults.
"Gutiérrez attributed these problems to neurobiological factors in the Mexican population and the context that affects behavior, daily life, and stress," he explained. He also pointed out possible risk factors such as age discrimination, marginalization, poverty, and the lack of adequate remuneration for those who retire from the workforce.
The situation is worsened by the scarcity of medical resources in Mexico. By 2024, the country had only 1,062 certified geriatricians, meaning each specialist had to care for more than 15,000 older adults. Gutiérrez emphasized that it is essential to prioritize prevention in mental health, as both dementia and depressive states are preventable.
Areli Pérez Carrizosa, a geriatrician from the Koltin team, mentioned that many older adults do not receive treatment for depression due to the false belief that it is a natural part of aging. Additionally, she pointed out that there is a strong stigma that contributes to the reluctance of older adults to use mental health services.
In response to this issue, both the public and private sectors are implementing measures. The government of President Claudia Sheinbaum has initiated a census to provide medical attention to older adults in their homes, while Koltin offers the first health insurance focused on this age group.
