Mind Matters: Addressing Mental Health in the Aging Population

This session explores key factors that influence mental health, with a focus on recognizing commonly overlooked physical signs of anxiety and depression and understanding how Medic*tion reactions may contribute to or worsen symptoms. Participants will examine contributing causes, the protective role of social connection, physical activity, and cognitive engagement, and review available crisis response options to support individuals during mental health emergencies.

At the end of the presentation, learners will be able to:

· Identify commonly overlooked physical signs of anxiety and depression.

· Recognize adverse Medic*tion reactions that may mimic or exacerbate mental health symptoms.

· Explain the positive impact of socialization, physical activity, and cognitive stimulation on mental well-being.

· Describe potential causes and contributing factors for anxiety and depression.

· Explain key crisis response options that provide support during mental health emergencies.

Continuing Education Credits Available: Western New York Rural Area Health Education Center, Inc. (WNY R-AHEC) is recognized by the New York State Education Department’s State Boards for Social Work (#SW-0685), Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Mental Health Practitioners (#MHC-0268), and Speech Language Pathology as an approved provider of continuing education for licensed social workers, physical therapists and assistants, occupational therapists, and assistants, licensed mental health counselors, and speech language pathologists.

Presenter Bio:

Brittany Miske, RN, AGNP-BC, MBA is a clinician by trade with over 15 years of clinical experience across diverse healthcare settings and roles. Her background includes, but is not limited to, behavioral health, long-term care in skilled nursing facilities and community settings, acute care, clinical education, and leadership.

Her journey in healthcare began at Samaritan Hospital School of Nursing in Troy, NY, where she discovered a passion for serving those without a “voice” and empowering individuals to actively participate in their healthcare journey. She went on to earn her BSN from SUNY Delhi, her MS-AGNP-BC from Russell Sage College in Troy, NY, and most recently completed her MBA from the AACSB-accredited program at the University of Southern Indiana to strengthen healthcare systems with a focus on accessibility and equity for underserved populations.

She currently serves as Vice President of Healthcare Management & Clinical Support at Care Design NY, where she leverages her clinical expertise and leadership skills to strengthen support for Care Managers, advance inclusivity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), and optimize clinical operations. She is a strong advocate for collaborative partnerships as a means to bridge gaps in healthcare and promote equitable outcomes.

Outside of her work and studies, Brittany enjoys spending time with her husband and their three dogs. If the sun is out, you can find her outside enjoying nature hiking, gardening, fishing, or taking a jaunt with her dogs. When the weather is not conducive to outdoor activities you can find her curled up with a good book, a fire crackling in the fireplace, and a dog or two within arm’s reach.

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