Breaking the Cycle of Learned Helplessness in Older Adult Service and Care

A lack of motivation, a lack of natural systems of support, and a lack of capacity to make decisions – are these some of your top challenges in working with older adults with cognitive impairment or mental health issues? Learn more about how some parts of our system of care reinforce learned helplessness and a dependence on formal systems of support. Let’s begin to break the cycle of learned helplessness with evidence-based tools and approaches to care that enable more confidence, connection and empowerment.

Part 1: Maximizing Independence in Older Adults after Hospital Care w Sarah Foidel, OTD, OTR/L, Pacific University

Older adults quickly lose function when being hospitalized. This phenomenon is supported by evidence that prolonged immobility, pharmacology, lack of activity, and sensory overload impact function and have negative long term outcomes. In addition, the same impacts can be created in LTC. By creating protocols and care plans that promote independence, older adults can have greater positive outcomes. This 60 minute session will include an overview of this topic, a brief case, and time for questions.

Part 2: Perspectives on Client Empowerment with The Older Adult Behavioral Health Initiative – Panel Discussion

Hear from 3 Older Adult Behavioral Health Specialist across the state on top issues in enabling empowerment including: 1) Developing Collaborative Client-Helper Relationships, 2) Person-centered motivation and encouragement in Memory Care, and 3) Strengths-based approaches across the “Helplessness-Self-reliance” Continuum. With Lualhati Anderson, LMSW CSWA QMHP-C, Coos and Curry Counties, Helen Beaman, LCSW, MSW, Tillamook and Lincoln Counties, and Kera Magarill, MA, Washington County.

Approved for 2 NASW CEU