This training is for Aged Care RACH staff and Community Aged Care. 

The Older Person Mental Health First Aid course teaches participants who work with, care for or support adults aged 65+ how to provide initial support to someone who may be experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis, until professional help is received or the crisis resolved.

Course participants learn about the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems in older adults, how to recognise and respond to an emerging or worsening mental health problem, and the treatments and support available.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course participants will be able to:

• Recognise the signs and symptoms of mental health problems in older adults
• Use an evidence-based action plan to initiate a mental health first aid conversation
• Assess for a range of crisis situations and provide initial support
• Understand the prevalence and impact of mental illnesses, risk factors and treatments and support available
• Apply self-care practices as a Mental Health First Aider.

Adults who complete the Older Person MHFA course become Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAiders), equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to provide mental health information and support when it matters most.