_Mental Illness in Older Age

The Sheltered Housing Network

Supporting All Involved in The Provision of Sheltered and Supported Housing

MENTAL ILLNESS IN OLDER AGE

General Information
This interactive workshop explores perceptions and attitudes towards the common mental health problems experienced by some older people. It is designed to help staff working in environments where they may have to support older people who are experiencing mental health problems. The course is primarily for people working in either a community or residential setting but may also benefit others working in similar environments.

A range of training methods will be used in delivering the course content. This will assist in ensuring effective input of course material. Participants will be encouraged to take an active part in each session.

Aims & Objectives Of The Course
The aim of the course is to look at the effects of mental health problems in old age and the way participants can address and cope with the issues of managing these situations. Participants will develop their skills, attitudes and knowledge in the areas of:

	Increasing a greater understanding of mental health in old age
	Awareness of different kinds of support available to older people experiencing mental illness
	Recognising barriers to communication
	Encouraging a multi-disciplinary and co-ordinated approach to working with mental health problems in old age

Objectives
By the end of the course participants should be able to:

	Identify myths and stereotypes of inevitable mental decline with age
	Gain an insight into some common mental disorders
	Use appropriate communication techniques
	Suggest realistic approaches to supporting older people experiencing mental illness
	Examine difficult issues and dilemmas facing professional workers

Summary
The course is designed to be flexible and the content and setting can be varied to meet the particular requirements of individual groups.

Participants will be encouraged to adopt a supportive and positive approach to the group as a whole. It is hoped that this will allow individuals to achieve greater proficiency and confidence through taking part in a stimulating and enjoyable learning programme.

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