Concise and accessible overview of key concepts of the psychology of aging by a renowned scholar and practitioner on the topic, for use in the classroom as a supplement to developmental and clinical psychology courses, and a valuable resource for interdisciplinary studies with a focus on gerontology. Aging 101 dispels common myths about the older and aging population and provides a wealth of evidence-based information that introduces aging theory, many common problem areas that impinge on older adults, as well as treatment approaches. This reader-friendly, compact book explores how psychologists understand and treat Alzheimer's disease and dementia patients, and their caregivers; older adult sexuality including the unique sexual problems confronting gay male, lesbian, bisexual and transgender older adults; older adult abuse; substance abuse; and issues surrounding death and dying, among other compelling topics.

Written by an expert in gerontological social work and curriculum development, this book provides a wealth of clinical information for social workers and other health care professionals who counsel older adults. It describes a strengths-based, empowerment approach to treatment that integrates theory, technique, advocacy, and social policy, and encompasses the tenets of human rights. The book's content has been tested in the classroom setting for a three-year period with advanced social work undergraduate and graduate students.

The book examines various theories of aging including a contrast between the strengths-based person-in-environment theory and the pathologically based medical model of psychological problems. It advocates truly engaging with the older client during the assessment phase, and discusses a variety of intervention modalities. The psychological construct of stigma regarding aging is examined, along with the major psychopathological problems common to older adults. The book also considers Alzheimer's disease and dementia, medical problems of older adults and co-occurring psychological problems, substance abuse, older adult sexuality, elder abuse, and the vulnerabilities of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender older adults. Additionally, the book addresses mental health issues pertaining to residential settings and the aspects of death and dying that give older people concern. Extensive case studies, learning objectives, and discussion questions are featured in each chapter. The book also includes an instructor packet, PowerPoint slides, and an interactive PDF.

Key Features: Provides a wealth of classroom-tested clinical information Espouses a strengths-based approach to treatment that integrates theory, technique, advocacy, and social justice Consistent with social work mandates for a human rights focus Presents extensive case studies, learning objectives, and discussion questions in each chapter Includes an instructors packet, PowerPoint slides, and interactive PDF