The Assessment and Treatment of Older Adults

by Lee Hyer (ed.) Grounded in extensive research, this book outlines a deliberative process in the psychosocial care of older adults, both in terms of assessment and treatment. It is a clinical undertaking with academic emphasis on the real life needs of older adults, and even considers current meta-trends of health. The world of aging has changed. Data now clearly suggest that older age is replete with exciting complexities that can be unpacked and changed. Specifically, the book articulates a Watch and Wait model of care espousing a plan for the modal problems of later life. Five domains are presented as a sufficient understanding of a case: general health, cognition, depression, anxiety, and life adjustment. Importantly, assessment is considered first in each domain and a profile for each patient is provided as a result. The text also discusses the role of personality in later life. Empirically supported interventions are then provided in each area. This book is intended for health care professionals, as well as academics who work with this population. Older age is changing and a newer model of care is necessary.