Older adults with mental health conditions are primarily cared for and supported at home by their family members. Mental health conditions in older adults include: cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer’s-type dementia, depression, delusions, and alcohol and medication addiction. Dementia, for example, is one of the greatest social and health policy challenges of our time. Given demographic trends, it is certain that we can expect a significant increase in the number of cases.

Since October 1, 2006, the Public Health Department, in collaboration with various independent organizations, has been offering all residents of Salzgitter access to counseling services close to home. Here, family members receive information about changes caused by the illness, diagnostic and treatment options, specific support services, and financial considerations. They are given guidance on how to cope with behavioral changes and counseling regarding conflicts with the person receiving care.

The counseling is provided by staff members with specialized qualifications in gerontology. In Salzgitter, the initial counseling session is always free of charge; a fee of 5 EUR is charged for follow-up sessions.

• Appointments for counseling sessions in Salzgitter-Lebenstedt and Salzgitter-Thiede can be scheduled by calling 05341 / 846713. Organizer: Paritätischer Wohlfahrtsverband Salzgitter.
• Appointments for counseling in Salzgitter-Bad can be scheduled by calling 05341 / 816722; sponsored by: Mütterzentrum Salzgitter.
• Appointments for counseling in Braunschweig can be scheduled by calling 0531 / 2565740; sponsored by: ambet e.V.

Family caregivers are often overwhelmed with outpatient care and support, especially for people with severe dementia, due to changing family structures and the increasing demands of the illness. In Salzgitter, a geriatric psychiatric care home, Haus Amalia in Lebenstedt, offers inpatient care and short-term care places.