Using New Attitudes and Technology to Change the Developmental Counseling Focus for Older Populations

Counseling and Human Development, Apr 2003 by Thomas, M Carolyn, Martin, Virginia, Alexander, Jeri Jo, Cooley, Fannie R, Loague, Averil M

Self-pacing, working with partners, extensive practice, and opportunities to question and receive assistance are often mentioned as integral in helping older people have positive learning experiences. Therefore, a program that provides tech pals is a creative strategy. Technology has become required in all schools and universities, and community service is a requirement of many educational programs and social organizations. University programs that include internships in numerous disciplines might provide student helpers with technology skills who could assist older persons in centers or in their homes. Volunteers or organizations might provide community service by helping older people with their technology skills. University continuing education and elderhostel programs could provide peer instruction, staffed facilities, and appropriate equipment for those wanting to learn different computer applications. Properly trained tech pals can be invaluable in helping older people access the unlimited resources and enjoy the many benefits of technology.

SUMMARY

Counselors can be instrumental in changing the negative belief of aging as a period of decline to the positive view of aging as a stage of growth with the self-actualizing goal of continuing to develop to one's full potential. The traditional counseling focus of assessing limitations and following up with rehabilitation can be transformed into an emphasis on wellness, adaptation, and empowerment. Planning for successful responses to change can replace the traditional view of remedying losses. Conceptualizing old age as a series of substages with differing tasks leading to ultimate fulfillment rather than a downhill slide to death can alter the manner in which older people seek ego integrity.

One way by which older people can become empowered is to use technology to meet their needs caused by physical and social changes. Counselors first must examine their own attitudes about aging and change the beliefs that negatively influence their work with older people. Counselors also must become knowledgeable about the needs of older people and how technological applications can meet those needs. Finally, counselors must become change agents in their communities and professions, and assume leadership roles in advocating changes in attitude and technology programs for older people. In doing this, counselors can help create environments in which older people can pursue their successful development. More important, society will benefit because we will all continue to enjoy the intergenerational gifts of wisdom, commitment, and caring that older people have the potential to bestow.

REFERENCES

Administration on Aging. (2003). Home page. Retrieved January, 2003 from http://www.aoa.gov/prof/Statistics/statistics.asp

American Psychological Association. (2003). Guidelines for psychological practice with older adults. Washington, DC: Author.

Baldi, R. A. (1997). Training older adults to use the computer: Issues related to the workplace, attitudes, and training. Educational Gerontology, 2, 453-465. Retrieved January 5, 2004 from Academic Search Elite database.