BT06 Conversation Hour 01 - Aging - Peggy Papp, LCSW

Description:

Educational Objectives:

1. To describe philosophies of various practitioners and theorists.

*Sessions may be edited for content and to preserve confidentiality*

Outline:

Aging & Family Complexity

• • Aging brings challenges like tech changes, medical decisions, shifting gender roles.

  • Remarriages, longer lifespans, and modern family events (e.g., weddings) add emotional and logistical strain.

  • Today’s family dynamics are more complex than in the past.

• Elderly Couples in Therapy

  • More older couples now seek therapy—contrary to past assumptions about resistance to change.

  • Motivation includes shared resources and commitment; change is possible at any age.

  • Retirement often triggers role shifts and marital stress.

• Retirement & Role Reversals

  • Cases include husbands facing post-retirement depression and wives gaining independence.

  • Couples adapt through compromise, often reversing traditional gender roles.

  • Adjustments bring emotional and relational challenges.

• Depression in Older Adults

  • Depression tied to isolation and performance issues.

  • Spousal support plays a key role in treatment success.

  • Emotional burden often affects both partners.

• Family Caregiving & Conflict

  • Chronic illness strains families—especially among siblings with unresolved issues.

  • Parental emotional well-being is impacted by family discord.

  • Younger generations can help mediate and support aging parents.

• Independence & Care Planning

  • Older adults often resist giving up independence.

  • Lack of close relatives complicates discharge and care planning.

  • Early planning and intermediate care options are crucial.

• Aging & Disability Connection

  • Need for inclusion of elderly in disability support conversations.

  • Shift in mindset needed to view aging and disability as connected.

  • Planning with realistic expectations is key.

• Innovative Care Models

  • Example: Retired faculty living independently in supportive community.

  • Benefits include mutual care, reduced conflict, and aging-in-place.

  • Emphasizes need for more community-based models.

• Financial & Emotional Strains

  • Case: Social worker considering retirement due to spouse's parental care duties.

  • Balancing care responsibilities and personal plans is difficult.

  • Solutions include tiered care facilities enabling daily family involvement.

• Supportive Communities & Facilities

  • Importance of communities offering various care levels.

  • Positive experiences in well-run nursing homes shared.

  • Call for more elder-focused support systems.

• Planning for the Future

  • Financial prep and acknowledging self-neglect are essential.

  • Adult Protective Services plays a key role.

  • Vision of ideal aging includes love, support, and strong community ties.