Clinical Social Work Practice with Older Adults

Catalog description

This course is designed to prepare students to work competently with older adults and their families. The course begins with an overview of the aging process, attitudes towards aging and aging theory. Mental health is also covered in detail, beginning with assessment, then moving towards various mental health issues that commonly affect older adults, such as depression, delirium and anxiety. Substance abuse and suicide are also highlighted. A range of different treatments is also taught, including traditional psychotherapy models to alternative and complementary models, such as pet therapy. Students will explore other clinical issues such as caregiving, ethics, elder abuse and end-of-life care. The course ends with attention to community resources, policy and the long-term-care continuum.