Working with Older Adults with Serious Mental Illness: Opportunities and Challenges

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Target Audience

Psychiatrists, clinical social workers, psychologists, nurses, counselors, primary care providers, peer support specialists and other mental health professionals.

Description

The experience of aging for people living with mental illness is unique. It is estimated that 20% of people aged 55 years or older experience some type of mental health concern. The most common conditions include anxiety, severe cognitive impairment, and mood disorders (such as depression or bipolar disorder). (Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Association of Chronic Disease Directors. The State of Mental Health and Aging in America Issue Brief 1: What Do the Data Tell Us? Atlanta, GA: National Association of Chronic Disease Directors; 2008).

During this presentation, we will review the experience of aging for people living with serious mental illness, their health and social needs, evidence-based strategies for meeting those needs, and associated opportunities and challenges.

Skill level: Intermediate.

Faculty
Bebe Smith, MSW, LCSW
Consultant and clinical social worker in private practice

This presenter is being supported through a partnership between UNC-CH School of Social Work and the NCAHEC Program.

Webinar Information
This webinar will be broadcast with Zoom. Instructions to join the webinar will be emailed prior to the event. You can test your computer by going to the Zoom Test Page.

South Piedmont Area Health Education Center (AHEC) has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 5096. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. South Piedmont Area Health Education Center (AHEC) is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.

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Objectives

• Describe common experiences for older adults living with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression.
• Outline relevant treatment and community support approaches.
• Explain how integrated care and recovery and community inclusion principles can be incorporated into services for older adults living with serious mental illness.

Sessions