Mental Health Concerns and the Older Adult

Course overview

The healthcare worker meeting mental health needs will be able to view the older adult within the context of aging theories and identify interpersonal connection, biopsychosocial elements, and the assessment and treatment for common mental health problems in the older adult. The target audience is any healthcare worker who will assess, intervene, or treat mental health needs of an older adult client. Registered nurses, mental health technicians, mental health providers, case managers, and primary care healthcare workers can benefit from the perspective provided by this course. Learning Outcomes Examine the most common theories on aging, developmental tasks, and reflection from the older adult perspective. Evaluate essential components of the therapeutic alliance with the older adult. Demonstrate verbal communication styles that enhance the interpersonal connection with the older adult. Differentiate the social determinants of health and the barriers to care for the older adult. Select recommended assessment considerations for the older adult. Appraise biopsychosocial considerations for the assessment for the older adult. Analyze crisis, loss, grief, and bereavement for the older adult. Distinguish risk factors, treatment, and recovery for the older adult with a mental health diagnosis.