Please pay attention to the information below Zero plagiarism five references not less than 5years 89 year old African American female living in the long term facility. He was diagnosed with Anxiety disorder. Patient on Xanax 30mg twice a day. Patient was seen by psych MD and no medication was recommended. Stable at this time Select a client that you observed or counseled this week. Then, address the following in your Practicum Journal:
Title: Case Study Analysis: An 89-Year-Old African American Female Diagnosed with Anxiety Disorder
Introduction:
This case study presents an 89-year-old African American female residing in a long-term care facility. The patient has been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and is currently prescribed Xanax at a dosage of 30mg twice a day. During a recent visit to a psychiatric physician, no additional medication was recommended as the patient was deemed stable at the time. This journal entry will address various aspects of the patient’s case, including an analysis of the observed or counseled client, potential causes of anxiety disorder in older adults, recommended interventions, and considerations for culturally sensitive care.
Observations and Counseling:
During my interaction with the client, I observed several key aspects. Firstly, the client appeared to be anxious and expressed a sense of restlessness. She frequently exhibited symptoms such as excessive worry, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Additionally, the patient shared that she often experienced physical symptoms like shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and sweating. These observations, along with the client’s self-report, align with the symptoms associated with anxiety disorder, as per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
Potential Causes of Anxiety Disorder in Older Adults:
The occurrence of anxiety disorder in older adults can be multifactorial and influenced by various biological, psychological, and social factors. Biological factors may include genetic predisposition or imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Additionally, medical comorbidities, pain, or side effects of medications can also contribute to anxiety symptoms.
Psychological factors, such as cognitive decline, chronic stress, past trauma, or fear of death, can further exacerbate anxiety in older adults. Sociocultural factors, including living in long-term care facilities and the experiences of racism and discrimination that some African Americans face, may also significantly impact the mental health of older adults.
Recommended Interventions:
When designing intervention strategies for older adults with anxiety disorders, it is essential to consider their specific needs and preferences. The use of medication, such as Xanax, may be appropriate in some cases, as it can help reduce acute symptoms of anxiety. However, it is crucial to review the potential risks and benefits of medications for older adults due to increased susceptibility to adverse effects and drug interactions.
In addition to pharmacotherapy, non-pharmacological interventions play a vital role in managing anxiety disorders in older adults. These may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), relaxation techniques, psychoeducation, and social support. For this particular client, exploring other therapeutic modalities could be beneficial, especially given that the psych MD did not recommend medication adjustment.
Considering Culturally Sensitive Care:
Culturally sensitive care is a crucial component in providing effective treatment for older adults, as it helps ensure that interventions are aligned with their cultural beliefs, values, and preferences. In the case of an African American client, it is essential to recognize the potential impact of racial discrimination and historical trauma. This understanding can enhance empathy and rapport, leading to improved treatment outcomes.
To provide culturally sensitive care, it is crucial to engage in active listening and create a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic environment. Respect for the client’s autonomy, cultural background, and spirituality should also be upheld. Collaborating with family members and incorporating their perspectives can further enhance the client’s overall care experience.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the case study of an 89-year-old African American female diagnosed with an anxiety disorder highlights the need for a comprehensive treatment approach. This includes a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions tailored to the individual’s needs. Additionally, cultural competence and sensitivity are essential considerations when providing care to older adults from diverse backgrounds. By considering these factors, healthcare professionals can optimize treatment outcomes for older adults with anxiety disorders.