Discuss the three most common disorders in older adulthood: alcoholism, phobias, and depression. Why are these three disorders, in particular, so common in elderly communities? What is the epidemiology and causes of each disorder? Review the 9-2 Aging in Action passage in your textbook and reflect on the impact of depression amongst elders. Specifically, discuss the relationship between depression and suicide. Why is suicide so common in late life–especially for males?What can we do to increase awareness regarding this issue and decrease the rates of suicide in elderly men?
Reading from the text (Belsky, J. (1999). The Psychology of Aging: Theory, Research, and Interventions. (3rd ed.). Pacific Grove, CA.: Brooks/Cole Publishing Company)