Choose ONE of the three Case Studies for the Final Project by clicking the following links.
Case Study ONE:
Case Study ONE
Mr. Joe Simon is a 77-year-old man who has been married for 55 years. Joe is a retired police officer. His two children and five grandchildren live out of state. Within the past 6 months, Joe had hip surgery. Since then, a few things have changed. He is no longer active within his community. He has decided not to go back to volunteering at the local Humane Society or playing cards at the Recreation Center, as he states, “Since my surgery I am no longer interested.” He has become more isolated from the community, his wife, and his family. Joe has lost about 15 lbs since his surgery, and shares he is fatigued due to his insomnia. Joe recently moved into the spare bedroom because he blames his wife for his insomnia. Mr. Simon no longer is interested in the favorite foods that his wife cooks and has become increasingly agitated and angered with his wife’s “nagging” demeanor.
He also reports he is taking his high blood pressure and cholesterol medication regularly, as well as his pain meds. Mr. Simon also is grateful for the “Ativan” that the doctor prescribed him to help deal with his identical twin’s suicide and has reported several refills over the past year as well as the pain meds. Mr. Simon says – “No, do not worry about me. I am fine. I just miss my brother and I wish I was with him.” Ms. Simon has become increasingly worried about her husband.
His oldest daughter tells her mother she wants to come for a visit as she is worried about her father. Joe is adamant that the “kids” do not come until Christmas. As you review this case, what comes to mind? What type of assessments, diagnoses, and interventions may be appropriate for Mr. Simon? As you think of Social Determinants of Health and health disparities, what comes to mind?
You will use the case study you select to compose an 8-10 page (excluding title page and references), APA formatted, paper that includes the following information:
Organization providing mental health service and the mission of the Organization
Name of Mental Health Professional (first name only)
Highest education level, current job position, credentials (preferably Master’s level professionals or higher; however, we will accept Bachelor level mental health professionals)
Years experience in the mental health field;
Favorite thing the professional enjoys about the field;
Approximately, how large is their caseload? Of their cases, how many individuals are over 65 years old?
How many hours per week do they interact with older adults?
(preferably Master’s level professionals or higher; however, will accept we will accept Bachelor level professionals)
Share the case study with the mental health professional and discuss the following questions:
Overall thoughts by the mental health professional. What stood out to them while reading and reviewing the case study?
What would be an evidence-based assessment tool to use with the individual in the case study?
What is a potential diagnosis, and why did they report that diagnosis?
What would be an evidence-based intervention to help this individual? Why would they suggest it?
What barriers do they encounter when serving older adults? What barriers do they believe older adults encounter in the mental health system?
Any other thoughts?
Take the time to reflect on your own thoughts about your experience with the mental health professional.
What recommendations do you have for the staff member regarding the answers to the above questions based on what you learned this term (they will not see your recommendations)?
Do you believe they have a strong working knowledge of older adults? Why or why not?
What are the least and most concerning aspects of mental health and mental wellness in older adults, as we move through this next decade?
What are the least and most concerning aspects of mental health and mental wellness in older adults, as we move through this next decade?
Relate findings of your interview and case study to a minimum of 4 concepts related to the course, using academic supports.
