NA25344 hOnlineAudio Version Available
Depression in Older Adults
This course examines depression in the geriatric population through a comprehensive lens, beginning with diagnostic considerations that differentiate it from grief and cognitive decline. Participants will explore treatment strategies that include both conventional approaches and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), along with recent updates to Medicare coverage that may affect care access. The course also highlights the bidirectional relationship between depression and chronic illness, underscoring the importance of early detection and integrated care. By increasing awareness and clinical competency, this course aims to empower healthcare professionals to better support the mental health needs of aging patients.
4 CEU hours Patsy Barnes, RN, BA Free retakes
Pre-Approved for
ACMCA BRNCCLCPCCMCDMSCE Broker ProviderCLCPCMCPSCOHN/COHN-SCRCCCVECVRPDelaware BONMSCCRNs
Course Overview
Older adulthood is often viewed as a period of fulfillment, marked by retirement, the pursuit of personal interests, and the enjoyment of time with family and friends. However, for many, this stage of life can also bring significant challenges, including the onset of chronic health conditions, bereavement, social isolation, and a decline in functional independence. These life changes can increase vulnerability to depression, a condition that is frequently underdiagnosed or misattributed to "normal aging." Yet depression in older adults is neither inevitable nor untreatable - it is a distinct clinical entity that requires appropriate recognition and intervention.
This course examines depression in the geriatric population through a comprehensive lens, beginning with diagnostic considerations that differentiate it from grief and cognitive decline. Participants will explore treatment strategies that include both conventional approaches and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), along with recent updates to Medicare coverage that may affect care access.
The course also highlights the bidirectional relationship between depression and chronic illness, underscoring the importance of early detection and integrated care. By increasing awareness and clinical competency, this course aims to empower healthcare professionals to better support the mental health needs of aging patients.
Course Format
This course is online. All course material is available online and is accessible immediately after purchase from your account homepage. Certificate of Completion is available immediately upon passing the exam.
Course Objectives
- Explain the unique risks and prevalence of depression in older adults.
- Identify common symptoms and presentations of depression in this population.
- Discuss both conventional and complementary treatment options, including recent Medicare policy changes.
- Describe how chronic diseases interact with and impact depressive symptoms.
- List key risk factors that contribute to depression in older adulthood.
Listen to a sample
Customer Testimonial
"Thank you for this opportunity. Grateful for all I have learned. Will refer to this book like a bible. Everything I deal with every day but clarified everything! The staff and owners are compassionate and kind. Thank you Thank you."
Course Outline
1
Introduction: Depression in Older Adults
2
Distinguishing Grief from Clinical Depression
3
Treatment Approaches: Pharmacologic, CAM, and Medicare Coverage Updates
4
The Interplay Between Chronic Illness and Depression<br />
5
Risk Factors and Contributing Variables in Late-Life Depression
Final assessment
Approvals & accreditation
AAACEUs is an approved provider for the following boards. This course counts toward continuing education for 15 credentials.
Depression in Older Adults