Increasing Provider Comfort Levels: Working with Older Adults

Estimates suggest that adults, age 50 or older, with substance abuse disorders will double during the next two decades. At the same time, people over age 65 with mental health disorders will increase from 7 million in the year 2000 to 15 million by 2030. There is a lack of specialized services for older adults and a shortage of service providers adept at and willing to treat the unique needs of this growing population. The SAMHSA Older Americans Substance Abuse & Mental Health Technical Assistance Center will provide information regarding the impact of low health literacy and aging factors, engaging participants through role play and didactic. This training is designed to increase staff knowledge, confidence, and communication skills in working more effectively with older adults. The training equips each participant with knowledge and practical procedures to utilize in their own programs and to train others. TAC staff members address issues related to older adult quality of life, the impact of chronic health conditions, and current research regarding health literacy and behavioral health impact. Knowledge dissemination modalities include lecture, experiential and interactive activities.