According to studies, seniors face a variety of mental health challenges. It is estimated that more than one in five adults over the age of 60 suffer from at least one mental or neurological disorder, including anxiety, cognitive impairment, depression, and other mood disorders.
Marriage and family therapists and mental health counselors are now eligible to receive Medicare Part B payments under the Mental Health Access Improvement Act included in the 2023 US budget. Medicare Part B covers outpatient services, such as doctor visits.
If appropriate care is available, sought, and accessed, many of these mental health challenges can be effectively diagnosed and treated. Mental health disorders lead to poorer health outcomes, lower quality of life, and higher medical expenses if not treated.