ADDRESSING TRAUMA IN OLDER VETERANS IN HOME-BASED PRIMARY CARE. (20th December 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Moye, Jennifer; Bashian, Hannah; Heintz, Hannah; Daks, Jennifer; Baird, Lola; Kaiser, Anica Pless; O'Malley, Kelly; Etchin, Anna
• Is Part Of: Innovation in aging. Volume 6(2022)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 150
• Page End: 151
• Publication Date: 2022-12-20
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 612.67
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igac059.601
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-5300

Abstract

Abstract: As Veterans age, confronting illness and role changes, they may experience later adulthood trauma reengagement (LATR). To better understand this process in medically ill Veterans, we completed six focus groups with 21 VA Home Based Primary Care (HBPC) mental health clinicians in rural and urban settings; 14 completed a follow-up survey. Thematic analysis of focus groups confirmed the LATR model with unique presentation and treatment challenges related to medical, physical, and cognitive changes. In surveys, the most challenging symptoms were: intrusive symptoms, dissociative reactions, and psychological/physiological reactivity (79%). In addition to focus group themes, surveys described challenges related limited social engagement, Veteran ambivalence, and lack of empirically supported treatments appropriate to HBPC. Results of these focus group and survey data provide key insights into the unique presentation of trauma in aging medically ill Veterans. Ongoing efforts to adapt materials and resources for this population will be described.