The National Service Framework for Older People (NSF-OP) was published in March 2001, 12 months behind schedule. It includes eight standards, five of which address broad issues such as eliminating age discrimination, person-centered care, intermediate care, general hospital care, and health promotion. The remaining three standards focus on mental health, stroke, and falls. The NSF-OP advocates for the interests of older people, particularly in areas like integrated care and dignified end-of-life care. However, it has faced criticism for lacking specific funding for old age psychiatry and for not adequately addressing the impact of mental health on intermediate care. Conflicting pressures, such as budget pooling and the exclusion of older people from care trusts, have led to ageism in mental health services. The single assessment process has also caused confusion, and the Mental Health Information Strategy does not apply to older adults. Despite these challenges, old age psychiatrists remain cohesive and linked with supportive organizations. The government's need for "joined-up thinking" is emphasized to prevent the marginalization of old age psychiatry.The National Service Framework for Older People (NSF-OP) was published in March 2001, 12 months behind schedule. It includes eight standards, five of which address broad issues such as eliminating age discrimination, person-centered care, intermediate care, general hospital care, and health promotion. The remaining three standards focus on mental health, stroke, and falls. The NSF-OP advocates for the interests of older people, particularly in areas like integrated care and dignified end-of-life care. However, it has faced criticism for lacking specific funding for old age psychiatry and for not adequately addressing the impact of mental health on intermediate care. Conflicting pressures, such as budget pooling and the exclusion of older people from care trusts, have led to ageism in mental health services. The single assessment process has also caused confusion, and the Mental Health Information Strategy does not apply to older adults. Despite these challenges, old age psychiatrists remain cohesive and linked with supportive organizations. The government's need for "joined-up thinking" is emphasized to prevent the marginalization of old age psychiatry.