Let’s recognise that older people get depressed, too – and get them the help they need | Adrian Chiles

Too often the prevailing attitude seems to be: They're knackered and lonely - what do you expect?'

When I was a kid, I couldn't understand why old people weren't in a constant state of panic. I would look at my grandad, sitting there quietly reading the Birmingham Evening Mail, and wonder how he could stay so calm. How come he wasn't as horrified as I was at the prospect of him dying before too long? If I was him, I thought, I would be running around the garden screaming in despair and terror. I just didn't get it, and to some extent I still don't, which is a considerable worry since I'm a good deal closer to old age than childhood myself.

Sorry to sound so miserable. Do read on; there are some positive thoughts further down.