BH 135 Older Adults and Treatment

Lecture Hours: 2
Credits: 2

Introduces the field of social gerontology. Explores the relationship between the aging individual and society. Presents information on theory and practice, including: behavioral responses to the normal aging process, healthy adaptation to aging, substance use and disorders, and diagnosis and treatment of common organic and functional mental disorders. Examines how discrimination of the aging population arises from culturally defined meanings attributed to difference.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Describe the historical perspective of the treatment for older adults.
Discuss sociological considerations in relation to older adults.
Explain physiological complications of addiction and older adults.
Identify treatment issues for older adults with addictions.
Identify relapse issues for older adults and with addictions populations.
Discuss the role and issues of concern for the helping professional.

Content Outline

History and Treatment of older adults
- Stereotypes
- Barriers to treatment
Sociological Considerations
- Socialization of older adults
- Older adults in relationships
- Older adult of color
- Queer older adults
Physiological Complications
- Older adults and alcohol
- Older adults and stimulants
- Older adults and heroin
- Older adults and cannabis
- Older adults and methamphetamine
Addicted older adults and infectious diseases
Older adults Treatment Issues
- Domestic violence
- Sexual abuse
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress Family Relationships
- Relapse Issues
- Denial and shame
- Unhealthy relationships