Aging and Society
What is ageism?
Negative Attitudes toward the process of aging or toward older individuals
Depression is a normal and inevitable part of getting older. True or false?
False
What is social isolation?
Having limited social contact or connection with others.
What does resilience mean?
The ability to adapt or cope when facing difficulties.
What does cultural humility mean?
Continuously reflecting on one's assumptions and remaining open to learning from clients.
Name one major life change that may affect an older adult's social life.
Retirement, losing a spouse, relocation, or changes in mobility.
Older adults can benefit from counseling and psychotherapy. True or false?
True
Name one barrier that may prevent an older adult from attending therapy.
Transportation, cost, mobility limitations, stigma, or inaccessible services.
Name one potential strength an older adult may bring to counseling.
How might culture influence an older adult's expectations about family caregiving?
Cultural values may shape expectations about family responsibility, independence, and caregiving.
True or false: Most older adults inevitably become dependent on others
False. Many older adults remain independent, and support needs vary.
All older adults experience significant memory loss as they age. True or false?
False
What should a counselor avoid when working with an older adult who has memory concerns?
Assuming the person has dementia or that all memory changes are simply normal aging without appropriate assessment.
Name one source of social support for older adults.
Family, friends, neighbors, or community groups.
Should a counselor assume every person from the same cultural background has identical beliefs about aging?
No. The counselor should ask about the individual client's beliefs and preferences.
What is one reason the older adult population is becoming a larger part of society?
People are living longer, and birth rates have gone down
Older adults may continue to have romantic and sexual interests. True or false?
True
An older client says their family makes all their decisions without asking them. What counseling concern does this raise?
Family dynamics and potentially age-based discrimination or control
What is one way older adults can maintain a sense of purpose?
Volunteering, pursuing hobbies, helping others, or staying involved in the community.
Why should counselors avoid stereotypes about older adults?
Because every person has different experiences, needs, and beliefs.
A counselor assumes a client cannot learn a new skill because of their age. What is this an example of?
Ageism
If an older adult lives alone, they must be socially isolated. True or false?
False. Living alone does not necessarily mean someone feels lonely or lacks social connections.
A counselor suspects an older client is being abused. Name one appropriate step the counselor should take.
Assess immediate safety, respond sensitively, follow applicable reporting requirements, and help connect the client with appropriate support.
Why is it important for counselors to recognize an older adult's strengths?
It helps counselors build on the client's abilities and resources instead of focusing only on problems.
What should a counselor do if an older client's cultural beliefs differ from their own?
Respect the client's beliefs, remain open-minded, and avoid imposing their own values.