Online Courses
Description
This course provides health and human service workers with fundamental knowledge of the signs and symptoms of common mental health concerns that impact older adults and the tools required to address the needs of the older people you work with in this crucial realm — through appropriate intervention or referral. The course will discuss a strengths-based approach to mental health, which uncovers and draws on the person’s strengths and abilities. Understanding how to work from this perspective will help you become more effective in your work with people who need affirmation and encouragement to work toward their recovery.
Note: This course is also accredited by Boston University School of Medicine Continuing Medical Education/Continuing Nursing Education to provide 4 CNE and CME credit hours. It can also be taken as part of our Behavioral Health in Aging Certificate which provides 19 CNE and CME credit hours.
*You may register for this course individually or as part of our Behavioral Health Certificate.
Learner Feedback:
“I truly enjoyed this course — as a manager of a senior center it has taught me so much. I appreciated the information, the website, the blogs, etc.”
Contributing Authors:
Bronwyn Keefe, PhD, MSW, MPH is the Assistant Dean of Workforce and Professional Development at Boston University School of Social Work where she is also the Director for The Center for Aging and Disability Education and Research (CADER) and The Network for Professional Education.
Amelia Paini, MSW, Program Manager for Curriculum Development, Boston University School of Social Work
Joan Ead, Eadem Writing Associates
Objectives
- Examine the mental health conditions that affect older adults.
- Describe the common standardized mental health assessments and diagnostic tools that are appropriate for older adults.
- Identify resources and services available for treating mental health conditions in older adults and their families.
- Demonstrate an understanding of how to conduct mental health assessments and interventions with older adults in a culturally competent manner.
- Explain the risk factors for suicide in older adults.
Course Outline
Section I: Course Overview
Section II: Background, Scope, and Public Policy
Section III: The Mental Health Disorders of Older Adults
Section IV: Engagement, Screening, and Initial Assessment
Section V: Assessment: Some Helpful Tools to Assess Mental Health
Section VI: Psycho-pharmacological Therapies for Older People
Section VII: Psychosocial Therapies and Programs
Section VIII: Ethics and the Law in Mental Health Issues
Section IX: Summary, Resources, & References
Course Policies
For information about refunds, cancellations, accommodations and to contact us please visit the policies page.