A study in Dang, Nepal, examined the prevalence of mental health issues among older adults, focusing on anxiety, depression, loneliness, and insomnia. Conducted from August 2023 to January 2024, the research surveyed 814 participants aged 60 and older. Results showed that 5% had low mental well-being, 7.25% experienced loneliness, 14.13% exhibited signs of general anxiety disorder, 6.58% suffered from depression, and 1.97% had insomnia. Higher rates of these conditions were found among older adults of Dalit ethnicity, those with chronic illnesses, and individuals with a family history of mental illness.

The prevalence of these issues was lower in Dang compared to previous studies in Nepal. Factors such as caste, chronic illnesses, and family mental health history significantly impacted mental well-being. The study emphasizes the need for targeted mental health screenings and culturally sensitive interventions, including community-based programs that address caste stigma and enhance social support. It calls for future research to better understand mental health in older adults across Nepal.