Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders in Late Life

In this course, we explore how depression, anxiety, and mood changes uniquely manifest as we age, focusing on the many factors that influence emotional well-being in later life. We examine how physical health changes, grief, caregiving roles, and social connections intersect with our personal histories and broader social systems. By understanding these complexities, we can better navigate the mental and emotional landscape of older adulthood with clarity and compassion. We learn to identify when emotional distress is overlooked or misunderstood as "just a part of aging," particularly when masked by chronic illness or medication effects. The course provides practical, easy-to-understand information on recognizing symptoms and exploring effective, family-centered approaches to care. We prioritize culturally responsive and trauma-informed perspectives, ensuring that every individual's history and community context are honored. Key topics include late-life depression, anxiety, and the emotional impact of memory changes and chronic illness. This course will be recorded. Students will have access to the video for 30 days.