Lee Kehoe

Memory is a pervasive theme in each of our lives. Memory is not necessary to remain alive, but it is necessary to know you have lived. Memory is also a salient theme when working with older adults. I work with individuals who have memory issues, some long term, some short term. I work with individuals who are holding on to their lived life through memories as they work to cope with loss of homes and functional declines

I have had a hiatus from writing blogs for the ACA due to life events, but since my last blog, I have remained active and passionate in my work with older adults. All the while coming across cases and experiences that I knew would make for a great blog topic. So in starting back up this blog project, I look forward to sharing these many experiences and the growth I feel I have gained from each one.

“What about this medication? Should I try this one out?” “There has to be something out there that can make all this easier.” “Why can’t things just be simple these days.” These are just a few of the many lines I hear when working with older adults who are dealing with the multiple stressors and daily challenges that aging brings. Considering the overwhelming transitions, declines in functioning, and comorbid medical conditions; the weight of such stress understandably can lead to the development of symptoms of depression and anxiety.

As counselors, we encounter challenges not only on a daily basis, but often from moment to moment as we work with our clients on issues that disrupt the client’s entire life – sometimes even shake their sense of self. While each symptom or issue is weighed differently within the lives of clients, the issue of death and dying seems to weigh heavily universally with those dealing with death or dying.

Over the summer, I had the opportunity of co-facilitating a program for older adults in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias and their caregivers. In addition, I have been facilitating a support group for just caregivers, and over the course of the summer have learned a great deal about the challenges caregivers of older adults face in regards to mental health and wellness. Furthermore, as my caseload grows as a mental health counselor working with older adults, I have had a growing number of experiences engaging with families and caregivers.