What does a geropsychologist do?

A geropsychologist is a specialized psychologist who focuses on the mental health and well-being of older adults. They conduct assessments to diagnose mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or dementia. Geropsychologists develop personalized treatment plans and provide therapy to address these issues and improve the quality of life for older adults. They may also specialize in cognitive rehabilitation to help individuals maintain cognitive functioning and improve memory. Geropsychologists offer support and guidance to family caregivers, providing education and coping strategies. They may collaborate with other healthcare professionals and provide consultation on issues related to aging and mental health.

Geropsychology is the applied specialization of psychology for the specific demographic population of aging / older/ elderly adults. Whether we recognize it or not, this demographic deals with the emotional toils of morbidity associated with health conditions, mental faculty difficulties, and grieving the loss of beloved family and friends. Tangentially, those who care for this demographic experience compassion fatigue, emotional and mental effects, even trauma that they may need a trained professional to help them navigate.

A geropsychologist specializes in addressing the mental health and emotional well-being of older adults. They assess and diagnose mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive disorders like dementia. Geropsychologists provide individual and group therapy, helping seniors cope with life transitions, loss, and health changes. They collaborate with caregivers, offer support to families, and educate communities on aging-related mental health. Geropsychologists contribute to research, promoting overall psychological well-being in settings such as nursing homes, hospitals, and private practices.

The specialized training of a geropsychologist is similar to standard doctoral training for licensure. Success as a geropsychologist however hinges on qualitative capacity for emotional intelligence and compassionate care identity. The formal training through accredited universities may fall short of fully developing this skill set. Someone looking to move into this field should consider mentorships and additional training for meeting the needs of the aging population and their health with an holistic approach in mind.

The traditional opportunities for geropsychologist are becoming more abundant as the U.S. population continues to have greater average life expectancy. Up from mid-40s (during the time of the Great Depression & WWs), adults in the US are expected to live 74-76 years or so depending on gender, health status & number of co-morbidities according to the CDC. As a result, we have seen an increase in assisted living facilities, as many elderly adults are opting avoid potentially burdening their children because of their care needs. Geropsychologists can find employment opportunities through coordinated home-health for independent seniors, assisted-living communities, local community centers & within the health care setting at hospitals / hospice.

J’éprouve beaucoup de gratitude envers les psychologues, quelques soient leurs spécialités. J’ai eu la chance et l’aurai sans doute d’autres fois d’avoir recours à leurs savoirs et compétences. Je suis qui je suis aussi grâce à eux. J’ai beaucoup de mal à accepter qu’en 2024, il y ait toujours des freins pour faire appel à leurs domaines d’expertise. Pour des maux de dents, le réflexe est le dentiste, sans honte. Pourquoi n’en n’est il pas de même pour faire appel aux psychologues ? Merci à tous ceux qui exercent cette vocation. Respect.