Milford Regional Medical Center is offering a free two-part webinar series focused on senior mental health in October, providing information for caregivers, family members and older adults.
The online programs are part of Milford Regional’s “Opening Doors to Mental Health” community webinar series, according to a community announcement. The sessions will feature Kelly O’Malley, a board-certified geropsychologist, and Lisa Shaw, manager of behavioral health and addiction services at Milford Regional.
Chief Operating Officer Bert Thurlo-Walsh will serve as moderator.
The first webinar, “Mental Health Causes and Effects of Social Isolation and Hoarding Disorder,” is scheduled to take place at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 14, according to the announcement. Participants will learn about hoarding disorder among older adults, strategies to reduce social isolation and ways to discuss social needs with older family members while encouraging involvement in community activities.
A second webinar, “Ways to Approach Difficult/Sensitive Topics With Older Adult Family Members,” is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, according to the announcement. That session will focus on communication strategies designed to help families navigate sensitive conversations and avoid unproductive discussions.
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Both webinars will include time for audience questions and information about available community resources.
“Mental health is an essential part of overall health at every stage of life, yet many older adults face challenges such as social isolation, anxiety, depression and difficulty navigating important life conversations,” Thurlo-Walsh said in a statement. “Through this webinar series, we hope to provide caregivers and family members with practical tools, expert guidance and access to resources that can help improve their loved one’s well-being.”
Registration information is available through the Milford Regional Medical Center website at ummhealth.org/milford-regional. Visitors can scroll near the bottom of the homepage and select “View All Events” to find the webinars.
Questions may be directed to Community Benefits Manager Michelle Sanford at 508-422-2827 or Michelle.sanford@umassmemorial.org.
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This article originally appeared on The Milford Daily News: Milford MA hospital webinars will offer tips for senior mental health
