Working with Seniors: Health, Financial, and Social Issues

Chapter 4: Mental Health, Grief, and Loss in Later Life

A number of challenges present themselves to seniors in later life. These challenges include adapting to changes in their physical, functional, recreational and social status, as well as transitioning to new roles in society or at home. For some seniors, a new role means becoming a caregiver or being the one who needs assistance with the activities of daily living.

While the vast majority of older adults function very well in their later years, some older adults develop mental disorders. In this chapter, you learn about common mental health problems, symptoms, and treatment options, as well as the types of grief associated with changes of various types such as retirement, illness, divorce or the death of a loved one. This knowledge helps you better understand and support your senior clients who are experiencing these challenges.