McDowell Senior Center

Did you know that misuse of medications is a growing problem in older adults?  This training identifies commonly misused medications, discusses the physiological differences related to aging, and treatments and interventions. Attending this course can shed light on the various contributors to this growing problem. We also discuss the possibilities of how we can help as individuals and as a society. RSVP: terry.spencer@vayahealth.com

This presentation explores relevant information pertinent to traumatic events and experiences. Through classroom conversation and exercises, participants learn ways to support individuals who may have experienced a traumatic event; which may lead to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.  Resiliency methods will be employed as methods to treat and heal the invisible scars. RSVP: terry.spencer@vayahealth.com

This course focuses on the indicators and risk factors of suicide in older adults as related to current statistical data. In addition, this course explains methods of suicide response and keys to prevention. RSVP: terry.spencer@vayahealth.com

A curriculum designed to view schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders from the perspective of the individual experiencing the disorder.   The use of discussion and scenarios allows participants to learn interventions and strategies that provide supportive care to promote healthy outcomes. RSVP: terry.spencer@vayahealth.com

As we age, the use of antipsychotic medications may become a challenge in itself. As you attend this class you will learn the importance of decreasing the use of antipsychotics (especially in dementia) and focus on other possible techniques to manage psychosis. As always, we include the action, use and side effects of this classification of medication. RSVP: terry.spencer@vayahealth.com

An introductory course designed to support an understanding of the most commonly diagnosed mental health related conditions in the aged population. This curriculum takes a person-centered approach to understanding classifications and care delivery. RSVP: terry.spencer@vayahealth.com

The reality of personality disorders is that they involve long-term patterns of thoughts and behaviors that are unhealthy and inflexible and, though similar, no two ever look exactly the same.  This course defines personality disorder, explores different types and examines challenges associated with providing care for individuals who are diagnosed with one. RSVP: terry.spencer@vayahealth.com

Commonly referred to as dementia, neurocognitive disorders can affect the way people perceive and engage with the world around them. This course looks at various classifications of neurocognitive disorders (NCDs), Delirium and common changes associated with each type. Tips for care giving are provided. RSVP: terry.spencer@vayahealth.com