Counselling older people with alcohol problems

Authors:
FOX Mike, BLANCHARD Martin
Publisher:
Jessica Kingsley
Publication year:
2011
Pagination:
208p.
Place of publication:
London

Providing effective counselling services to the growing number of over-55s who misuse alcohol requires a specialised approach. They are often patronised, their ability to recover not acknowledged, and expected to fit into generic treatment systems. This practical guide explores the factors that differentiate older drinkers, and introduces a person-centred model designed to help counsellors and other healthcare professionals provide this group of clients with the help and support they need. Older people with alcohol problems often have complex personal histories, and are particularly vulnerable to long-term dependency, social isolation and self-medication. The authors explore the influences, patterns and triggers that affect the development and progression of alcohol dependency in this age group, and provide a detailed description of a theoretical model and therapeutic process that has proved successful in practice. Illustrative case studies are included and guidance is also given for working with clients with dementia or mental health problems. The book is aimed at counsellors and other healthcare professionals who encounter alcohol problems in their clinical practice, including clinical psychologists, social workers, occupational therapists and community psychiatric nurses.

Subject terms:
older people, person-centred care, alcohol misuse, counselling;
ISBN print:
978 1 84905 117 0

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