Understanding PTSD and Aging

Course overview

This course is based upon material published by the National Center for PTSD and is available as an open access article. PTSD can be a problem for anyone who has gone through or witnessed a traumatic event, whether recently or long ago. Not all PTSD is combat-related; it can be caused by any experience that threatens the life of oneself or others, including sexual trauma or physical abuse. This course is written for older adults who have or think they may have PTSD, for people who have been diagnosed with PTSD in the past, but find their symptoms reoccurring or changing as they age, and for their care providers. The course provides information about PTSD, its causes, signs and symptoms. In addition, the effect of aging on PTSD is covered. Recommended treatments are reviewed, as are information and resources for those afflicted. This course on Post Traumatic Stress Disease and aging is designed for social workers, professional counselors, psychologists, nurses, and substance abuse counselors, who do clinical work. This course is appropriate for beginning, intermediate and advanced level practitioners who wish to develop or increase their knowledge of aging and PTSD. The course material includes a review of treatments. It may also be useful for licensed clinicians who require clinical continuing education courses for license renewal. Authors: National Center on PTSD Learning Objectives: This course will provide the practitioner with detailed information regarding PTSD and aging. Specifically, a professional will: - Recognize the signs and symptoms of PTSD - Summarize how aging can affect PTSD - Explain how treatment can help PTSD sufferers Citation: Understanding PTSD and Aging. National Center for PTSD, September, 2019. www.ptsd.va.gov