Question

What programs are available to support the aging population and address end of life issues? Why do you think these are necessary? In researching these programs, what gaps need to be addressed? How could these be addressed? Use scholarly resources to support your explanations. Please provide citation supporting your answer.

Answer 1

American psucpsycholog association suggests a .new way of health care called "Integrated health care" for older adults. . In integrated health care a team of health professionals work with people to address both their physical and mental health needs.

It is necessary because evidence suggests that today's workforce is insufficient in number and in preparation to meet the current mental health and substance use treatment needs of older adults.

People who are above the age of 65 nern to be addressed.

Physical and mental health needs of aging people must be addressed. Collaboration between health providers must happen. Perhaps some old people may have trouble taking their medication as prescribed or eating a proper diet or exercising regularly is a challenge- a psychologist can help with that. In addition, working with a psychologist may lessen the need for medication to manage physical health problems. And, treatment of mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, or caregiver burnout can result in better physical health. Finally, some older adults feel embarrassed about others knowing they are seeking help for mental health problems. Seeing a psychologist in the same facility as their physician can decrease these concerns.

Deborah DiGilio, MPH (Director, APA Office on Aging) and Toni Vincent (Graduate Health Communication Intern, APA Center for Psychology and Health)

A blog on mental health 2015)