Advisory: Promoting Integrated Physical and Behavioral Health Care for Older Adults

As America’s population ages, older adults face growing challenges from co-occurring physical and behavioral health conditions—yet care often remains fragmented. This SAMHSA advisory outlines evidence-based strategies to integrate physical and behavioral health services, improving outcomes, reducing costs, and enhancing quality of life. This includes strategies for older adults with serious mental illness including self-management programs, telehealth, digital tools, and peer support to expand access—especially in rural and underserved areas.