Assessment and Treatment of Older Adults A Guide for Mental Health Professionals

Every day ten thousand baby boomers turn 65, and by 2030 more than 20% of US residents will be 65 or older. Mental health professionals must become familiar with the unique needs of this growing population.

Using the APA Guidelines for Psychological Practice With Older Adults and the Pikes Peak Model for Training in Professional Geropsychology, this book shows mental health providers how to expand their practice in order to treat older adults. Chapters describe tools and techniques for assessing and treating common conditions that practitioners encounter when working with older adults, including depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, and prescription drug misuse. Clinical case examples demonstrate how to deliver interventions while avoiding common interactional pitfalls. Includes expert recommendations for assessment tools, additional readings, and online resources.

 

For over 40 years, Dr. Hinrichsen has provided clinical services, conducted research, directed psychology internship and fellowship programs, contributed to public policy and aging, and had leadership roles in aging-related professional organizations. He is the former U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) National Director of Community Mental Health.  He is on the faculty of the Dept. of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City and also in the Department of Counseling and Clinical Psychology, Teachers College, Columbia University.  Dr. Hinrichsen lives in New York City, NY.    
 

Acknowledgements
Introduction
Chapter 1. Thinking About Aging and Work in the Field of Aging
Chapter 2. Facts About Aging and the Lifespan Developmental Perspective
Chapter 3. Overview of Assessment
Chapter 4. Overview of Treatment
Chapter 5. Assessment and Treatment of Depression and Anxiety
Chapter 6. Assessment and Treatment of Cognitive Impairment, Problem Alcohol Use, and Prescription Drug Misuse
Chapter 7. Summary and Next Steps
Appendix A: Resources
Appendix B: Assessment Screening Instruments
References
Index
About the Author