Mental and Emotional Health in Later Years

Untreated mental health disorders can have a significant impact on older adults, such as social isolation, placement in long-term care facilities and high rates of suicide. Older adults who show signs of having a mental disorder are less likely than younger adults to receive mental health services, and when they do, they are less likely to receive care from a mental health specialist. Professionals play a vital role in helping older clients and their families to recognize mental health disorders and support them in obtaining an evaluation and appropriate treatments. In this episode, you'll learn more about mental and emotional health in later years. Also learn from a guest speaker from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, who will provide tips and resources on recognizing the signs of suicide and on prevention. Lakelyn Hogan, PhD, is a gerontologist and caregiver advocate at Home Instead. She educates professionals in aging, families and communities on the unique challenges older adults face and the resources available to help them thrive. Hogan is a board member of the National Alliance for Caregiving, board chair for the Dreamweaver Foundation and vice chair of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Dementia Care Provider Roundtable.Doreen S. Marshall, PhD, is vice president, Mission Engagement, at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. As a psychologist with experience that spans clinical, educational, and professional settings, Dr. Marshall has been engaged in local and national suicide prevention work for nearly 20 years.