Identify an older adult age 65 +, use a 1st and last initial. Execute a therapeutic assessment interview with them for at least two interview sessions assessing their self-identified: The assignment should be written in an APA-formatted essay. The essay should be at least 1500 words in length and include at least two scholarly sources other than provided materials.
Introduction
The population of older adults aged 65 and above is expanding rapidly worldwide. With this increase comes a growing need to understand and address the unique needs and challenges faced by this population. Therapeutic assessment interviews are valuable tools for gathering information about an individual’s self-identified needs, strengths, and concerns. This essay will discuss the execution of a therapeutic assessment interview with an older adult, Mr. R.C., and analyze the self-identified aspects identified during two interview sessions.
Therapeutic Assessment Interview Sessions
Therapeutic assessment interviews are designed to create a collaborative and empathic environment where individuals can express themselves openly and honestly. In this case, the interview sessions with Mr. R.C. were conducted with the aim of understanding his self-identified needs, strengths, and concerns as an older adult.
Session 1: Exploring Self-Identified Needs
During the first interview session, Mr. R.C. was encouraged to share his self-identified needs. He expressed a desire to maintain his independence and continue living in his own home as he aged. He identified a need for social connection and reported feeling isolated at times. Additionally, he discussed concerns about his physical health, particularly in relation to his mobility and managing chronic pain.
Mr. R.C. also mentioned his interest in staying mentally active and expressed concern about cognitive decline. He stated a desire to engage in activities that would stimulate his mind and keep him mentally sharp. Furthermore, he shared his need for financial stability and expressed concerns about his retirement savings and the rising cost of healthcare.
Session 2: Exploring Self-Identified Strengths and Concerns
The second interview session focused on exploring Mr. R.C.’s self-identified strengths and concerns. He expressed a sense of pride in his ability to adapt to changing circumstances and problem-solve. Mr. R.C. highlighted his past experiences as a source of wisdom and resilience, which he believed would help him navigate the challenges of aging.
Mr. R.C. also discussed his concerns about the potential loss of autonomy and the possibility of becoming a burden to his family. He expressed a desire to continue making decisions about his own life and maintaining control over his healthcare choices. Furthermore, he mentioned his worries about the affordability and accessibility of healthcare services as he aged.
Analysis of Self-Identified Aspects
The self-identified needs, strengths, and concerns expressed by Mr. R.C. during the therapeutic assessment interviews provide valuable insights into his psychological well-being and areas for intervention.
Self-Identified Needs
Mr. R.C.’s expressed need for independence and a desire to age in place aligns with the concept of “aging in place,” which refers to the ability of older adults to live in their own homes and communities with independence, choice, and dignity. To address this need, interventions can be focused on providing support services such as home modifications, transportation assistance, and social activities that promote connections within the community.
The need for social connection and the experience of isolation are common among older adults, particularly those who live alone. Interventions can include facilitating access to community-based programs, support groups, or volunteer activities that foster social engagement and combat social isolation. Additionally, technology-based interventions, such as video conferencing platforms or social media, can facilitate virtual social connections.
The concerns about physical health and mobility highlight the importance of addressing the physical well-being of older adults. Interventions can include exercise programs tailored to the individual’s abilities, pain management strategies, and access to healthcare providers who specialize in geriatric care.
The expressed need for mental stimulation and concerns about cognitive decline underscore the significance of cognitive health in older adulthood. Interventions can involve engaging in intellectually stimulating activities such as games, puzzles, learning new skills, or participating in lifelong learning programs. Additionally, promoting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical exercise and a balanced diet has been linked to maintaining cognitive function in older adults.
Financial stability and concerns about retirement savings are common among older adults, particularly in light of rising healthcare costs. Interventions can focus on providing financial planning resources, educating older adults about available benefits, and connecting them with services that facilitate access to affordable healthcare options.
Conclusion
The therapeutic assessment interviews with Mr. R.C., an older adult aged 65 and above, revealed his self-identified needs, strengths, and concerns. Understanding these aspects is critical for developing interventions and support systems that address the unique challenges faced by older adults. By tailoring interventions to address the identified needs while capitalizing on the individual’s strengths, it is possible to enhance the well-being and quality of life of older adults. Further research and collaboration are necessary to continuously improve therapeutic assessment practices and promote successful aging for this growing population.