Settings and Contexts for Geriatric Practice
Chapter 2, “Settings and Contexts for Geriatric Practice,” provides a critical evaluation of the various environments in which mental health treatment of older adults occurs and of the practice issues inherent in such settings. Consideration of residential context and awareness of related issues is essential for the implementation of appropriate practitioner/clinician roles and for effective geriatric practice and intervention. The diverse range of living environments, including community-based, long-term care and acute care settings, are reviewed, from single-family dwellings, continuing care retirement communities, and assisted living facilities to nursing homes, hospitals, hospices, psychiatric and addiction facilities. Diverse issues encountered by older clients in such settings are discussed, including the need for social integration, adjusting to functional and cognitive decline, accessing services, caregiving, navigating transitions, and managing acute and chronic conditions.