Mental Health Long-Term Care
In Canada, long term care (LTC) is required for seniors who need 24-hour nursing care and support. Mental health issues are common among seniors in LTC.
Transitioning from independent living to a long-term care facility can be very difficult for older adults. More than two in five Canadian seniors living in LTC are diagnosed with or have symptoms of depression (CIHI, 2010).
The number of seniors living in long-term care (LTC) will quadruple in Canada by 2031.
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CCSMH/CAGP Position Paper on Mental Health in Long-Term Care During COVID-19 PDF
This position paper is written in partnership with the Canadian Academy of Geriatric Psychiatry and highlights the mental health care needs of older people living in long term care (LTC) settings during COVID-19 and other viral outbreaks. The position statements in this document provide actionable strategies and priorities to minimize the impact of COVID-19 on the mental health of residents of LTC. Collectively we can learn from our actions in the past and make plans for a future that better meet the mental needs of individuals living in LTC.
Supporting Mental Health and Well-Being in Community Residential Care Settings During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Beyond
Prepared by the CCSMH for the Canadian Standards Association. This report summarizes national and international best practices and guidance for the planning, development, and implementation of services, programs, education and training, policies, and procedures on how to support the mental health and well-being of residents in community residential settings. Click to view the report.
Tools for Seniors and Families:

Mental Health in Long Term Care
Available in English, French, Punjabi, Traditional Chinese and Simplified Chinese
Tools for Clinicians:
[updated February 07, 2022]