Illustrated with abundant clinical material, this book provides essential knowledge and skills for effective mental health practice with older adults. It demonstrates how to evaluate and treat frequently encountered clinical problems in this population, including dementias, mood and anxiety disorders, and paranoid symptoms. Strategies are presented for implementing psychosocial interventions and integrating them with medications. The book also describes insightful approaches for supporting family caregivers and addresses the nuts and bolts of consulting in institutional settings. Combining their expertise as a researcher and an experienced clinician, the authors offer a unique perspective on the challenges facing older adults and how to help them lead more fulfilling and independent lives. Three reproducible forms can also be downloaded and printed in a convenient 8 1/2" x 11" size.
Steven H. Zarit, PhD, is Professor and Head of the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at Pennsylvania State University, and is also Adjunct Professor at the Institute of Gerontology, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden. He has conducted research on late-life issues, particularly family caregiving and adaptation for older adults. Dr. Zarit is a recipient of the Distinguished Career Contribution Award from the Gerontological Society of America.
Judy M. Zarit, PhD, has been in private practice in State College, Pennsylvania, since 1986. She specializes in neuropsychological assessment of dementia and clinical interventions with older adults. Dr. Zarit also provides consultation services to nursing homes and assisted-living facilities.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction: Clinical Practice with Older Adults 2. Normal Processes of Aging 3. Disorders of Aging: Dementia, Delirium, and Other Cognitive Problems 4. Mood and Anxiety Disorders 5. Other Common Mental Health Problems in Later Life 6. The Clinical Interview 7. Psychological Testing for Differential Diagnosis and Capacity Evaluations 8. Foundations of Treatment 9. Treatment of Depression 10. Treatment of Anxiety Symptoms 11. Treatment of Paranoid Symptoms 12. Treatment of Dementia 13. Family Caregiving 14. Consultation in Institutional Settings 15. Ethical Issues in Geriatric Psychology
Interviews
Practitioners who work with older adults, including gerontologists, clinical psychologists, psychiatrists, nurses, and social workers; advanced students in these areas. Serves as a text for courses in psychology and aging, gerontology, geriatric psychiatry, and social work and the aged.
