Mental Health and the Elderly - A Social Work Perspective (Book)

The demographic shift to a much older population is having a large impact on social work professionals who have traditionally been the primary caretakers of the elderly. As more people are living into advanced old age, it is becoming increasingly important to understand and treat the wide range of psychological disorders which may affect them, rather than simply attributing the disorders to senescence as was frequently done in the past. Mental Health and the Elderly: A Social Work Perspective is a comprehensive guide to diagnosis and treatment of the range of disorders affecting the elderly. Each chapter, written by a renowned expert in the field, discusses a specific disorder from a social work perspective, integrating the biological, psychological, and social dimensions of the problem. Topics include depressive disorders, the Alzheimer's patient, anxiety states, alcohol addiction, suicide, schizophrenia, paranoia, the autistic elderly, and fears and phobias, among others. Each chapter includes a description of the condition, a brief historical perspective, and a discussion of the latest research on the topic drawn from a variety of disciplines. Cases are integrated throughout the chapters, as is material concerning the role of family members and other loved ones in the lives of the elderly. Special attention is given to the social work role as it relates to care and the provision of services. Emphasis is also placed on how social workers can effectively collaborate with colleagues in other related professions. Finally, the book accentuates a healthy orientation for people at this life stage and the need to focus on strengths. Mental Health and the Elderly is required reading for thehealth care professional working with the elderly. It is also an excellent resource for students taking courses in psychopathology, gerontology, or human growth and development.