In this learning object you will have the chance to explore the nature and characteristics of the ageing population in the UK, what being ‘old’ means, and some of the complexity surrounding the concept of ‘mental health’. As this learning object presents basic facts and concepts surrounding mental health and older people, it is recommend that you use this object to introduce yourself to this area. This learning object also contains a self-assessment section where you can test how far you have assimilated the key messages.