Professional Certificate in Disaster Mental Health for Seniors
Published on June 14, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm thrilled to have Dr. Jane Smith with us. She's an expert in geriatric mental health and the instructor of a new course, "Professional Certificate in Disaster Mental Health for Seniors". Dr. Smith, can you tell us more about this course and what inspired you to create it? GUEST: Thanks for having me! This course is designed to equip professionals with the skills to support older adults during crises, focusing on mental health strategies tailored for seniors. I've seen firsthand how disasters affect seniors, and I wanted to share my knowledge and experiences to help others make a difference. HOST: That's wonderful. Can you share any current industry trends or challenges related to disaster mental health for seniors? GUEST: Absolutely. One trend is the increasing recognition of the importance of trauma-informed care, especially for seniors who may have experienced multiple traumas throughout their lives. A challenge we face is ensuring that community resources are both accessible and appropriate for older adults in need. HOST: Those are important points. Now, what do you think the future holds for this field or industry? GUEST: I believe there will be a growing emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, as well as the integration of technology to better assess and support the mental health needs of seniors during disasters. HOST: Fascinating insights, Dr. Smith. Thank you for sharing your expertise and for creating this valuable course. To our listeners, be sure to check out the "Professional Certificate in Disaster Mental Health for Seniors" and join us in making a difference in the lives of older adults during challenging times.