Oldies but Goodies. What Therapists Need to Know about Aging
Despite the increases in our elderly population, most academic mental health programs do not address aging except in a cursory manner and the number of trained clinicians is not adequate to meet the needs in many communities. In part, that lack of interest is due to mistaken assumptions that older people are not interesting and cannot benefit from treatment.
The course goal is to provide clinicians with a foundation for understanding changes that are associated with aging, how to identify problems that are found in the older population, and how to provide effective treatment. Dr. Zarit and Dr. Zarit emphasize practical strategies that have been developed in clinical settings. Even when working with people who have chronic conditions, they find there are often treatable aspects of the situation which help them function better.
All orders include the entire presentation with handouts and a CE test.
Streaming videos and audio downloads will be available immediately after checkout
Mailed CD and DVD formats include the printed handouts and CE test in an attractive portfolio
Objectives
Participants will be able to:
- Differentiate normal aging from mental disorders
- Understand mental status testing for an initial assessment
- Recognize depression and anxiety in an older person
- Identify the different types of dementia.
- Describe the benefits and limitations of various dementia treatments
- Describe ways to work with caregivers
- List keys to successful aging
Topics
Aging of America and the Role of Psychotherapists
- What is normal aging?
- How depression and anxiety can look different in older patients
The Heart of Gero-psychology: Differential Diagnosis
- Taking a lifespan history
- Developing alliances with physicians
- A critical look at mental status exams
Gero-psychologist’s Tools for Effective Treatment
- Establishing a healthy therapeutic alliance
- Determining reasonable treatment goals
- Integrating health issues into treatment
Treating Anxiety & Depression
- Treatment works!
- Outcome studies
- Five components of treatment with depressed people
- Addressing anxiety symptoms
What are the characteristics of Dementia, Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI), and Delirium
- Recognizing the main types of dementia
- What is MCI?
- How is delirium different from dementia
Treatment and prevention of dementia
- Medication
- Cognitive and behavioral
- Lifestyle changes
And Now for the Fun: Working with Families
- Providing information and support to a caregiving spouse
- Coaching children in dealing with their aging parents
Keys to successful aging for you and your clients
- Accepting and planning for the changes that come with aging
- Stay healthy, active, and connected