PSY5016 · Supporting mental health and wellbeing in older adults

Overview

This unit will focus on mental health and wellbeing throughout the lifespan into older adulthood. You will gain an understanding of optimal ageing, including when changes occur across a variety of social (e.g., working and retirement), psychological (e.g., mental health) and biological (e.g., brain health) areas. Modifiable lifestyle factors and associated interventions to help optimize and promote healthy ageing will be considered, along with how we might communicate key messages in support of person-centred care and wellbeing. The unique challenges of working with older adults, and in particular older adults who experience complex mental health, addiction, and interconnected concerns will also be explored.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Evaluate aspects of mental health and wellbeing across the lifespan including intersectionality and challenges specific to ageing.
2. Apply the bio-psycho-social-cultural-spiritual model to holistically promote positive experiences and expectations of ageing.
3. Effectively communicate a range of critical factors involved in healthy and positive ageing to a diverse audience.
4. Apply knowledge of ethical frameworks and demonstrate reflective and evidence-informed practice in support of person-centred care.
5. Evaluate modifiable lifestyle factors and evidence-informed approaches to promote healthy ageing and support mental health and wellbeing.

Workload

You should expect to spend 20-24 hours per week on this unit to achieve the learning outcomes: • 5-6 hours self-directed learning journeys • 4-5 hours readings or activities • 7-8 hours skills-based assessment tasks Each week there will be an optional Zoom session.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.