Counseling Services for Older Adults

Although older adults have many strengths that may be called upon in times of need, some problems and losses may require outside help. For some people, painful events in the past, dissatisfaction in the present, or worries about the future may mean that they cannot enjoy life or achieve their goals. Adult children or others who are concerned about an older adult can also benefit from counseling services.

People who could benefit from counseling may be:

• Feeling depressed
• Adjusting to illness
• Experiencing stress in their families or social situation
• Having marital problems
• Grieving
• Concerned about or providing care for an older adults

Types of counseling services

Individual counseling provides the opportunity to share problems with someone skilled in listening and helping people deal with problems or losses. Social Work counselors can work with people to set achievable goals and suggest ways of attaining those goals. They will also make referrals to other helping services if appropriate.

Group counseling, facilitated by skilled social workers, provides participants the opportunity to give and receive emotional support from their peers. Problem solving is promoted through the sharing of mutual experiences.

The Professional Staff

The counselors at Geriatrics Center are trained and qualified geriatric social workers. They can work closely with physicians and psychiatrists to provide care which takes into consideration the variety of health problems of individual clients.

Cultural Sensitivity

Awareness of cultural and ethnic diversity is crucial to effective counseling. Therefore, unique needs of minority individuals are recognized and will be thoroughly addressed.

Scheduling appointments

Older adults or other concerned persons may call (734)764-2556 for a telephone interview about their needs, problems, and preferences for counseling services. A counselor will help people to explore their needs and discuss what kind of services might be appropriate.

Costs

Counseling services at the Geriatrics Center are reimbursed by Medicare. Co-payments may be covered by an individual's secondary insurance carrier. The Area Agency on Aging 1-B provides some funds for free counseling services in a person's home.

Confidentiality

Geriatrics Center staff recognizes the confidential nature of the counseling process and will keep all information private. For U-M Health System patients, a brief note including diagnosis, time spent, and progress towards a determined goal will be placed in the medical record.