People most in need of help and resources are often the hardest to reach because of the degree of their disconnectedness. Depression, substance abuse and social isolation are three of the most significant risk factors for suicide among older adults. This workshop focuses on assessing loneliness behaviors among older adults. The instructor will highlight how human beings are hardwired for connection and belonging, as well as the profound impact that social isolation and loneliness have on health and well-being. Both are associated with increased mortality. Because adults ages 55 to 94 face a heightened suicide risk, this workshop centers on that population.
After attending this training, participants will be able to:
- Identify the scope of loneliness and social isolation among older adults
- Acknowledge the impact of loneliness among racially diverse older adults
- Recognize the unique needs of older LGBT adults
- Explore the relationship among depression, anxiety, substance abuse, suicide ideation, bereavement and loneliness
- Integrate findings from empirical studies on loneliness into social services
- Increase skills related to interventions that reduce loneliness and social isolation
Course Code
506430