Reduction of social network and social interactions in older adulthood

The intention of this clinical dissertation is to provide information regarding the trend of social network and social activity reduction as people age, particularly in older adulthood, as well as to educate clinicians that older adult clients' selectively reducing their number of social ties and amount of social interaction can be a sign of healthy aging. This clinical dissertation is also intended to improve clinicians' skills in ruling-out or detecting depression in older adults. This dissertation critically reviews three distinct theories that address social network and activity reduction: activity theory, disengagement theory, and socioemotional selectivity theory, as well as provides empirical studies attesting to the validity of these theories, with particular attention to socioemotional selectivity theory. An overview of how depression in older adulthood differs from depression earlier in the lifespan: presentation, etiology, risk and protective factors, and potential outcomes is offered. An overview of the barriers to treatment for older adults is provided. A summary of findings from interviews with five psychologists who work with older adults in their practices is also provided. The pamphlet created in part for this dissertation provides clinicians with a condensed version of this clinical dissertation to be utilized as a useful tool when conducting therapy with older adults, and to bring awareness about the needs gap for this population and how more practicing geropsychologists and geriatric psychiatrists are needed to provide comprehensive care for the aging population. Limitations and implications of this study are discussed.