The mental health challenges facing ageing women: Insights from female baby boomers

The ageing population in Australia is well-documented. The 65-plus population has increased from 12.3% to 15.9% cent over the past 20 years. This group is projected to increase more rapidly over the next decade, as further cohorts of baby boomers turn 65.

Members of this generation (born 1946-1964) are now in their 50s, 60s, and 70s. Too often, the notion of an ageing population is assumed to mean that we – as individuals and collectively – are in decline. This construction of older members of society can have an adverse effect on mental health.

Having optimal mental health is central to full social participation. Our Global and Women’s Health team undertook qualitative research interviewing women of the baby boom generation to understand what helps and hinders their mental health. The study centred on women because there’s evidence that the experience of ageing is gendered.

Our study, published in Plos One, is the first published research of its kind conducted in Australia.