The purpose of this course is to highlight key issues that face the emerging generation of seniors and the mental health practitioners who will serve them. Statistical and demographic data and population trends and projections utilized in this course have been gathered from the US Census Bureau data and current population reports. The need for gerontological mental health services is expected to increase significantly as “baby boomers” approach the age of retirement.

Therapists need to identify any personal biases about aging to assist clients’ adaptation to age-related changes, provide treatment of mental disorders, address the needs of the rapidly growing minority aging population, and identify creative ways to offer needed long-term care. This module is designed, in part, to promote self-reflection regarding one’s attitudes about the process of aging and how these feelings may influence practice.

Historically, older adults have represented a very small percentage of individuals seeking mental health care or receiving care on an inpatient basis. Ageism, countertransference, or both, may affect the way therapists view older adults and contribute to this low rate of service utilization. Specific information will be presented regarding these salient areas: normative changes of aging, common mental health issues, successful aging, retirement options, aging in a diverse world, and long-term care planning.

This course is designed for social work students, social work professionals, and licensed social workers or marriage family therapists who work with older adults, wish to work with older adults, or who are interested in learning more about the issues important to this population.

California Pre-license Requirement
The pre-license requirement is ten (10) hours in aging and long-term care.

California License Renewal
For their first license renewal, LCSWs and MFTs are required to obtain a one-time three (3) hour course in aging and long-term care. If taken to meet pre-license requirements, this coursework does not have to be repeated.

After completing this course, the registrant will:

1. Be aware of the heterogeneity among the older population and the need for creativity in addressing mental health and long-term care needs.



2. Be aware of the impact of diversity and multiculturalism on health status, provision of health and mental health services, and utilization of long-term care facilities.



3. Be aware of the therapist’s own biases regarding aging and working with older adults.



4. Be able to identify the sources of societal ageism and its impact on the provision of health care and social services.



5. Be familiar with the common mental health issues affecting older adults.