Clinical Geropsychology

Clinical Geropsychology is broadly defined as the application of “the knowledge and methods of psychology to understanding and helping older persons and their families to maintain well-being, overcome problems and achieve maximum potential during later life" (Source: APA).

The population of the world is aging at a rapid rate. The Administration on Aging reports that people age 65 and older constituted about 13% of the US population in 2009, and these numbers are expected to grow exponentially. For the first time in human history, the world has more individuals age 65 and older than those age 5 years old and under. By 2030, there will be an estimated 72.1 million older adults in the US, constituting approximately 19% of the population. Given the expected growth of the older adult population, psychologists with specialty training in geropsychology are in demand.

Clinical geropsychologists are trained to address a variety of challenges common in later life. Older adults often experience a multitude of unique changes in later life, including declines in health, loss of loved ones, retirement, changes in residence, loss of independence, and others. Geropsychologists have specialized training to address problems such as depression, anxiety, neurocognitive disorders (e.g., dementia, mild cognitive impairment [MCI]) caused by problems such as Alzheimer's disease, caregiver stress, grief and bereavement, end-of-life care issues, and physical health problems (e.g., sleep disorders, diabetes, cardiovascular disease).

Clinical geropsychologists provide psychological assessment and intervention to older adults and their families, as well as consultation services to other health care professionals. These psychological services are provided in a variety of settings and contexts, including private practice, community mental health, integrated medical settings (e.g., primary care), rehabilitation care, inpatient psychiatric settings, residential care, long-term care, adult day health programs, and many other settings. Clinical geropsychologists are also trained to work in universities, academic hospitals and medical settings, research institutes, and public policy settings.

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