Mental Health World Conference 2026

Abstract

Older adults undergo profound psychosocial transitions in later life that can significantly affect their mental health and overall well being. Ageing is often accompanied by retirement, bereavement, shrinking social networks, and reduced physical and functional abilities, heightening vulnerability to social isolation and dependence on others. These changes, particularly the loss of a spouse, close friends, and other meaningful relationships, can contribute to loneliness, grief, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. Chronic illness and declining mobility may further restrict autonomy, social participation, and functional independence, thereby affecting overall quality of life.

These psychosocial challenges are intensified among older adults belonging to the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in India. PVTGs are among the socially and economically marginalised communities within the Scheduled Tribes and often face geographical isolation, insecure livelihoods, limited access to healthcare, and persistent socioeconomic disadvantage. In this context, older adults may experience loneliness, psychological distress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. However, access to mental health care and psychosocial support may remain fragmented due to stigma surrounding mental illness, cultural barriers, limited mental health awareness, and geographical isolation.

In this context, the present qualitative study presents findings on the psychosocial experiences of older adults from Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) living with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The study examined their lived experiences and mental health, with particular attention to emotional well being, loneliness, social connectedness, coping, perceived support, and the psychosocial challenges of living with a chronic, lifelong condition within their sociocultural context.