Geropsychology: Some potential growth areas in psychological research and practice

The increase in the proportion of the over-65 population in Australia has not been recognised in the field of psychological research and practise. It is suggested that further research is needed to identify risk factors for psychological problems in this age group. The little research that is available supports the use of psychological interventions in the management of common problems of everyday living amongst elderly clients. It is argued that the wider adoption of such early intervention techniques may help to prevent the occurrence of more serious mental health problems. Australian psychologists are encouraged to play a more active role in devising appropriate treatments and in conducting additional studies of the effectiveness of both new and existing treatments in this age group. In particular, studies on the effectiveness of treatments for problems such as bereavement, chronic pain, and elder abuse are identified as potential growth areas for psychologists.