Behavioral and Mental Health in Aging

Course overview

In the United States and globally, the population is aging rapidly. The need for geriatric behavioral and mental health services will also increase dramatically. Mental health and well-being are important for older adults as at any other time of life. Continued intellectual, social, and physical activity throughout the life cycle are important for the maintenance of mental health in later life. This course explores the issues of behavioral and mental wellness strategies for the older adult, cultural diversity as it relates to behavioral and mental health, and integrative therapies to support mental health in the aging population. The outcome of this course is for the learner to describe the factors related to behavioral and mental health promotion and wellness, culturally competent treatment, strategies, therapies, and services directed at improving the mental health of the older adult.