Aging, unlike many other topics in social work, is a “problem” most of us will encounter in our own lives. The idea that old age poses its own developmental tasks may seem counterintuitive, but the loss of autonomy is a turning point that sends the older adult on a new trajectory. This turning point must be understood as the beginning of a developmental stage of the life course, and the role changes it engenders must be incorporated into the individual’s life story.

This workshop will address the bio-psycho-social effects of the aging process, and engage practitioners in the development of skills for helping clients construct life-affirming narratives.

Topics to be covered:

•          Aging and mental health

•          Coping with illness and physical decline

•          Caregiving

•          Grief and loss

•          Life review

•          Healthy aging

The workshop will be experiential and interactive.  Participants should be prepared to engage in in-class activities. An environment of openness, with careful consideration of diverse perspectives, experiences and practices, will support and guide the discussion. Self-assessments will determine the efficacy of this approach for the attendees as practitioners.

Lauren Taylor, MS, LCSW, psychiatric social worker and oral historian, is an adjunct lecturer at the Columbia University School of Social Work, and, until recently, served as project coordinator of the Hartford Partnership Program on Aging Education.  Ms. Taylor has been on staff since 1994 at the Service Program for Older People (SPOP), a mental health clinic for older adults, providing mental health services both in the clinic and, for the frail elderly, in their homes. Ms. Taylor has also served as a field advisor and field instructor for Columbia University social work students interning in a range of aging agencies.

6 CE Contact Hours

REFUND REQUESTS:

All refund requests must be submitted by email to workshops@naswnyc.org . Valid requests must be received no later than five days prior to course date. 

All refunds are subject to a $20.00 administrative processing fee. Credit cannot be issued toward a future program date or substituted for another workshop. Refund requests typically require 1-2 weeks processing time.