The purpose of this essay is to describe the concept of aging in the current context, considering historical and conceptual aspects on prevention and promotion of mental health of the elderly and means of intervention. Aging is a process that must be experienced with autonomy, recognition of rights, safety, dignity, well-being and health. Interventions to prevent mental disorders in the elderly, very few present in national studies, are essential in reducing the risk of the emergence of disorders such as depression, anxiety and suicide. Interventions for health promotion, which are frequently used with the public, are useful in the development of skills such as empowerment, autonomy and self-efficiency. New public policies and research should include coordinated intersectorial actions, with preventive practices based on research in the prevention cycle, including brief and computerized strategies.
Aging; Mental health; Prevention; Health promotion; Public policy
