Mental Disorders in Older Adults, Second Edition

Steven H. Zarit, PhD, is Professor and Head of the Department of Human Development and Family Studies at Pennsylvania State University, and is also Adjunct Professor at the Institute of Gerontology, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden. He has conducted research on late-life issues, particularly family caregiving and adaptation for older adults. Dr. Zarit is a recipient of the Distinguished Career Contribution Award from the Gerontological Society of America. Judy M. Zarit, PhD, has been in private practice in State College, Pennsylvania, since 1986. She specializes in neuropsychological assessment of dementia and clinical interventions with older adults. Dr. Zarit also provides consultation services to nursing homes and assisted-living facilities.

This work offers an outstanding blend of scientific fact and clinical utility. The fields of gerontology and geriatrics have evolved substantially since the publication of the first edition, and this second edition captures the latest scientific advances for students and clinicians alike. Diagnosis of dementias, for example, is a complex and difficult task, but the authors make it clear and understandable with examples and tables.--Jerome Yesavage, MD, Stanford University School of Medicine Knowledge and understanding in the field of mental health in later life has developed so much over the last decade that this second edition, which is comprehensive in scope and yet detailed and thorough in its approach, is a major achievement. I will recommend it equally to clinical psychologists-in-training and to experienced colleagues, and will use it with our psychology undergraduates taking elective courses in this field. I found the use of numerous detailed case studies most helpful in bringing to life the research and theory. There is so much clinical wisdom in this book that reading it is comparable to a supervision session with a really experienced clinician. The tone of the book is refreshing: optimism and hope emerge from every page, grounded in a realistic appraisal of what can be achieved and in respect for the value of each older person and his or her caregivers.--Bob Woods, Professor of Clinical Psychology with Older People, University of Wales, Bangor, UK This second edition is an extraordinary guide for clinical professionals and graduate trainees who work with aging populations. The authors succeed in integrating clinical and research information in a highly readable, clinically relevant format. The case examples address the rich complexity of clinical psychology practice with aging populations, as well as the deeply satisfying nature of the work. For newcomers to the field, the book can function as a field guide. Anyone who engages in geriatric mental health services or research needs to read this book.--Sara Honn Qualls, PhD, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs This important, inspiring book is destined for the 'must-read' list of students in psychology, geriatrics, social work, nursing, and other health professions who are interested in working with older people and their families. With this revised text, Zarit and Zarit have succeeded once more in providing mental health professionals with a clear and well-written reference tool for their own clinical practice. Of particular benefit to students and practicing clinicians alike are the useful and practical case examples that illustrate the key concepts presented in each chapter.--Lynn Friss Feinberg, MSW, National Center on Caregiving, Family Caregiver Alliance Liberally illustrated with case examples, this book artfully blends clinical expertise and research findings to provide sound guidance and proven approaches to assessment and intervention. It is no short order to write a book that appeals to students, to experienced practitioners seeking to build their skills for working with older adults, and to researchers seeking a broad foundation in clinical concepts, but Zarit and Zarit have successfully achieved that goal. I found the chapters on assessment to be particularly well done. I would use this book as a resource in undergraduate psychiatric nursing courses or as a supplemental text in clinical courses for family, adult, or psychiatric nurse practitioners.--Donna L. Algase, PhD, RN, FAAN, FGSA, Center on Frail and Vulnerable Elders, University of Michigan School of Nursing -

• 1. Introduction: Clinical Practice with Older Adults2. Normal Processes of Aging3. Disorders of Aging: Dementia, Delirium, and Other Cognitive Problems4. Mood and Anxiety Disorders5. Other Common Mental Health Problems in Later Life6. The Clinical Interview7. Psychological Testing for Differential Diagnosis and Capacity Evaluations8. Foundations of Treatment9. Treatment of Depression10. Treatment of Anxiety Symptoms11. Treatment of Paranoid Symptoms12. Treatment of Dementia13. Family Caregiving14. Consultation in Institutional Settings15. Ethical Issues in Geriatric Psychology