Beyond Unwelcome Change in Late Life

My latest book Beyond Unwelcome Change in Late Life: Practical Strategies to Boost Social, Emotional and Physical Engagement is not far away from hitting the shelves – here’s a sneak peek at what it will cover and why it’s important now.

In 2020, I published my first book Beyond the Reluctant Move: A Practical Approach to Emotional Wellbeing in Residential Aged Care Facilities to dispel the myth that depression is a normal part of ageing. In the book I shared small but profound things we can all do to help older people improve their emotional wellbeing regardless of their physical health status and environment. The ideas and approach have since been adopted by many who work in residential care and allied health, as well as families and volunteers, significantly improving the wellbeing of older people in aged care facilities across Australia.

I’m returning to writing in 2022 and my second book is due for release in the coming months. There are 3 key reasons I have written this book now:

1. It’s not just older people in residential settings who may be experiencing mental health conditions. Older people living alone, particularly men, present at high risk of developing mental health conditions. Those who live with their families are not immune from emotional changes too.
2. Social disconnection encompasses many types of engagement including physical, emotional and psychological as well as loneliness and isolation. I wanted explore each of those components and help readers understand what may be going on for the older person and how to assist them using simple yet sustainable strategies.
3. The arrival of COVID-19 and social distancing has significantly impacted the ageing population and increased the risk of social disconnection in late life. Re-engagement after prolonged isolation has been difficult for some and the global issues of loneliness need to be addressed.

Changes in late life can be sudden or subtle. Sudden, unexpected changes like the death of a loved one or relocation to a new home and environment can cause shock and grief. A medical episode can change an individual’s health status and independence overnight. Subtle changes may include cognitive changes, mobility changes and increased support needs which can develop over time. Regardless of the type of change the older person may experience, if the change is unexpected or unwelcome they will benefit from additional support.

Older people who live alone are more likely to experience social disconnection, and are less likely to receive immediate support for changes, such as cognitive functioning. Social distancing measures may result in less social support being available, which can lead to social disconnection in the future.

Beyond Unwelcome Change in Late Life offers tested strategies to boost social engagement in late life across a range of different environments, including retirement villages and residential care, and for those who live independently or with their families. With clear explanations backed by research and extensive experience working with elders, this practical guide gives you tips and strategies that can be implemented straight away.

Register HERE so you are first to find out when you can pre-order your copy today to uncover endless ideas and inspiration to deliver welcome change to the outlook and wellbeing of the elders in your life.