Psychology 2030A/B Chapter Notes - Chapter 13: Dsm-5, Mental Health Professional, Cerebrovascular Disease

• School: Western University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: Psychology 2030A/B
• Professor: Ian Nicholson

Document Summary

A subdiscipline of psychology that addresses issues of aging, including normal development, individual differences, and psychological problems unique to older people (usually 65+) Extends the developmental approach to include challenges and psychological symptoms older adults face; e. g. physical changes, lifestyle shifts, and role changes. Many training programs in psychology do not provide sufficient education and experience in geropsycholgy, even though most psychologists provide clinical services for older patients. Apa published guideline knowledge for psychologists working with older adults, including: aging process, nature of cognitive and psychological problems of older adults, assessment tools, treatment procedures. Importance of interfacing with other disciplines to provide comprehensive care. 1/3 of older adults are judged to age successfully, but no consistent definition of the term. 20% of adults aged 65+ have a psychological disorder; consistent with the prevalence of mental illness in other age groups: higher among homebound and people who live in nursing homes/healthcare and social institutions with chronic illness.