Dynamic Aspects of Growing Older as a Person of Color

Dynamic Aspects of Growing Older as a Person of Color
Thursday, August 20 | 10am- 12pm (EST)
Virtual Training (2 CE)

Facilitator:

Dr. Robert Cosby, PhD, MSW, MPhil
Director, Multidisciplinary Gerontology Center

Program Overview:

The overall goal of this seminar is to deepen participants’ knowledge and practice with older adults, examine and address ageist attitudes and values, and dispel common myths and stereotypes about aging. Participants will explore how aging affects individuals and communities, with particular attention to the dynamic and changing experiences of African American older adults. Topics will include cognitive changes associated with aging, as well as the impact of racism, ageism, and sexism, with emphasis on developments and changes that have emerged over the past decade.

Participants will gain knowledge of prevalent health and mental health concerns among older adults and have opportunities to discuss challenges faced by clients, consumers, and their families throughout the aging process.

Using evidence-based social work practice, case studies, and critical-thinking exercises, the seminar will strengthen professional judgment and practice among social workers and other helping professionals. Discussions will address individuals ranging from the youngest old to the oldest old and reflect diverse backgrounds, including race, ethnicity, gender, class, sexual orientation, and geography.

Additional topics will include dementia and the biology of aging, psychosocial concerns, death and dying, and selected policy and economic issues, including Medicare benefits and the Social Security Act. Upon completion, participants will develop a blueprint to support their continued learning and professional practice with older adults.

*This training satisfies continuing education requirements in implicit bias and cultural competence in health care services.

Learning Objectives

• To develop knowledge and understanding of the biological, psychological, and social aspects of aging and relevant implications related to race, ethnicity, gender and class.
• To create an appreciation of the role of the social workers in geriatric settings and the specific ethical issues related to social work practice with older adults.
• To understand normal aging from a developmental and bio-psycho-social-spiritual perspective to recognize crises and later life problems.
• To be able to recognize health and mental health challenges prevalent among older adults and intervene utilizing appropriate diagnostic assessment tools.

Who Should Attend?

This seminar is designed for social workers, behavioral and mental health professionals, healthcare providers, case managers, counselors, aging-services professionals, community-based practitioners, educators, and other helping professionals who work with or support older adults and their families