Depression in Older Adults

---

How to Take This Course:

• 1 View Course Worksheet -  View the course worksheet or print it out to review later
• 2 Read the Course Material -  As you read through, mark your answers on the course worksheet to be prepared for the exam
• 3 Take Exam -  You must achieve a score of 75% or higher in order to earn credit for the course.
• You don't need to pay for an exam until AFTER you pass it. If you have any questions or need more information, please click here.

---

CE Course Description 

Depression in older adults is associated with an increased risk of cardiac disease and death from illness, and it can exacerbate memory loss and suicidal thoughts and lead to sleep and appetite disturbances. In addition, depression reduces an elderly person's ability to function in a healthy and productive manner. Early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment can help to counteract and prevent the emotional and physical consequences of depression among older adults.

Author: Kimberley Fortin, LCSW-R

CE Course Objectives

1. Identify risk factors and symptoms of depression in older adults. 
2. Examine evidence-based practices for treating older adults with depression. 
3. Recognize factors that improve health and functioning and lead to successful aging.
4. Discuss cultural considerations that impact adults as they age.
   
5. Describe how reminiscence and life review can be used as therapeutic processes to address challenges experienced during late life.

CE Course Outline:

Section 1: Introduction (2 minutes)

1. Overview of course objectives (2 minutes)

Section 2: Characteristics of the Older Adult Population (5 minutes)

1. Demographic trends (2 minutes)
2. Statistics and characteristics of older Americans (3 minutes)

Section 3: Factors for Achieving Successful Aging (5 minutes)

1. Definition of successful aging (2 minutes)
2. Key components influencing aging well (3 minutes)

Section 4: Biomedical Factors (5 minutes)

1. Physical health considerations (3 minutes)
2. Chronic disease impacts (2 minutes)

Section 5: Psychosocial Factors (6 minutes)

1. Emotional well-being (3 minutes)
2. Social support systems(3 minutes)

Section 6: Types of Depression in Older Adults (7 minutes)

1. Major depressive disorder (3 minutes)
2. Dysthymia and other forms (4 minutes)

Section 7: Symptoms of Depression in Older Adults (8 minutes)

1. Common symptoms and how they may differ from younger populations (8 minutes)

Section 8: Risk Factors of Depression in Older Adults (10 minutes)

1. Biological, psychological, and environmental risk factors (10 minutes)

Section 9: Assessment of Depression in Older Adults (4 minutes)

1. Tools and methods for assessment (4 minutes)

Section 10: Evidence-Based Practices for Treating Older Adults with Depression (4 minutes)

1. Overview of effective treatment approaches (4 minutes)

Section 11: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (4 minutes)

1. Principles and effectiveness for older adults (4 minutes)

Section 12: Problem-Solving Therapy (3 minutes)

1. Techniques and benefits (3 minutes)

Section 13: Reminiscence and Life Review (3 minutes)

1. Importance and therapeutic effects (3 minutes)

Section 14: Cultural Considerations (2 minutes)

1. Impact of culture on depression and treatment (2 minutes)

Section 15: Research Pertaining to Depression in Older Adults (2 minutes)

1. Key findings and implications (2 minutes)

Section 16: Conclusion (2 minutes)

1. Summary of key points. (1 minute)
2. Resources for further learning. (1 minute)

Additional Resources

1. References (not timed)
2. Appendices (not timed)

Total Time: 60 minutes (1 hour)
Course Level: Introductory

Course Date: 2022-08-15

Content License

Our courseware includes the text content found on our websites as well as video, audio, and exam questions that make up our courses. You can link to and access our courseware free of charge for personal use. You may not modify or redistribute our courseware under any circumstances.

Although we allow free access for personal use, you may not use our courseware for any commercial purposes without an agreement in place. This includes (but is not limited to) using our courseware for internal training, redistributing our courseware for sale, and copying all or parts of any of our courseware.

If you're interested in licensing our content for commercial purposes or have any other questions, please contact legal@edcompassedu.com.

Proprietary Interest Policy

We will disclose, in advance, any proprietary interest in any product, instrument, device, service, or material to be discussed during the learning event, as well as the source of any third-party compensation related to the presentation. This policy applies to both our organization and contractors. If such proprietary/financial interests exist, we will publish a disclaimer in marketing or instructional materials for a course.

No conflict of interest or relevant financial relationship was identified for this learning activity for individuals in a position to control content.

System Requirements

In order to view this course, you will need to be able to view a PDF document for the course material. If your device doesn't have the capability to view a PDF, you can click here to download Adobe Acrobat for free.

Special Needs

If you require ADA or other special needs accommodations, please contact us by email: support@mindfulceus.com or by phone 1-800-413-3797, so arrangements can be made.

‹ Return to Courses