Speaker(s):
Presentation: As the U.S. population ages, the number of age-related morbidities continues to increase. There is a national shortage of mental health practitioners who are prepared to work with older adults (Institute of Medicine, 2012). This presentation focuses on the specific opportunities and challenges for addressing the interaction of physical and mental health concerns in older adults and their involved family care partners. State of the art information will be provided about the unique mental health concerns of older adults who are also experiencing physical health problems. This presentation will address best practices in evidence-based assessment and intervention strategies with older adults and family care partners. Participants will also be provided with resources for future professional development in mental health and aging.
Objectives:
- Identify attitude, knowledge and skill competencies for evidence-based assessment and treatment of older adults
- Describe key considerations in the assessment and treatment of older adults with co-morbid physical and mental health concerns
- Discuss in-session strategies for overcoming challenges in psychotherapy with older adults