D. K. Conn, N. Herrmann, A. Kaye, D. Rewilak, B. Schogt (eds) Practical Psychiatry in the Long-Term Care Home. A Handbook for Staff

Excerpt

The prevalence of mental disorders in residents of long-term facilities is at least 80%. The evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric illness can lead to a decrease in suffering and improvement in the quality of life for many residents. This requires that the staff and mental health professionals work together effectively and that psychiatric illness, behavioural and psychological symptoms are recognized and treated, thus warranting a comprehensive and practical textbook on the management of mental disorders. The third revised and expanded edition of Practical Psychiatry in the Long-Term Care Home is such a book. This excellent handbook on geriatric mental health provides the knowledge base to all staff members in direct contact with residents who should be aware of the mental disorders of late life. The book conveys the message that nursing home residents can experience in spite of their disabilities improved quality of life if their mental health needs are met. It provides a biopsychosocial model of care helpful both in the understanding of the problems encountered and in the planning of individualized care. The book’s 20 chapters are conveniently arranged and cover a broad range of relevant topics for everyday care. Key points listed at the start of each chapter and case examples throughout the book as well as examples for information sheets also make this book a comprehensive and practical toolkit for education. This book should definitely be read by anyone interested in long-term care with a maximum of autonomy and sense of self for the resident. …