As Bhutan prepares to become an ageing society next year, health experts are raising concerns over the growing mental health challenges faced by older adults. Psychiatrists at Jigme Dorji Wangchuck National Referral Hospital report seeing four to five new elderly patients with mental health conditions every month, with dementia being the most common diagnosis. The condition often causes memory loss, confusion and behavioural changes, while depression, anxiety and alcohol-related disorders are also becoming increasingly common among senior citizens.
According to health professionals, loneliness, social isolation, chronic illnesses and financial insecurity are major factors affecting the mental wellbeing of older people. The Royal Society for Senior Citizens says changing family structures and increasing outmigration have left many elderly Bhutanese living alone without adequate support. The organisation emphasises that stronger family relationships, improved social protection and community-based care services are essential to safeguarding the wellbeing of the ageing population.
The National Statistics Bureau also found that nearly 40 percent of senior citizens experience multidimensional insecurity, including difficulties related to income, health and social support, increasing their vulnerability to mental health problems. Although initiatives such as home and community-based long-term care programmes and specialised psychiatric outreach services are helping to address these challenges, access remains limited outside Thimphu. Experts say expanding these services nationwide will be crucial to ensuring older Bhutanese receive the care and support they need.