Overview

Content advisory note

The following educational activity may contain content related to sensitive topics, including but not limited to, trauma, violence, abuse, self-harm and suicide, cultural sensitivities, and more. These subjects can be distressing and may evoke strong emotional responses. Please take care of your well-being and we encourage you to take breaks and/or seek support if needed.

The APS hosts this activity with the Psychology and Ageing Interest Group (PAIG).

Suicide occurs throughout the lifespan and older people die by suicide at a disturbing rate. We are living longer and as health professionals we need to be better equipped in supporting ageing Australians in community and residential settings. Risk of suicide in late life can often be missed, as older adults are the least likely age group to access mental health support and may not recognise that their physical symptoms may be a sign of mental health condition(s).

This webinar will identify some of the risk factors associated with suicidality in late life and offer strategies in how to tackle this topic across a range of settings. 

Level of Learning

Intermediate. This activity is targeted to those who have some previous learning on the topic.

Duration of access

Access to the recording and presenter slides is for 12 months from the date of confirmed registration.

APS CPD-Approved

This activity has been assessed against the APS Standards for CPD activities and approved for its education quality. Learn more about the APS CPD Approval process

CPD Frequently Asked Questions

Refer to the APS CPD Frequently Asked Questions for general and technical information when undertaking APS Professional development activities.

Activity details

On-demand webinar recording

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this webinar, participants should be able to:

• describe suicide risk in older adults,

• identify risk factors associated with suicidality in late life, and

• implement strategies and supports available for elders experiencing suicidal ideation.

Presenter(s)

Dr Julie Bajic Smith MAPS

About the presenter(s)

Dr Julie Bajic Smith is a registered psychologist who has over 15 years clinical experience in aged care. Julie is a board approved psychology supervisor and she regularly delivers clinical supervision to intern psychologists and other mental health professionals. Julie is also an experienced researcher and writer. Her doctorate research examined wellbeing in home care workers and postdoctoral research focused on supported decision-making in dementia. She has significant experience in assessment and the application of psychological treatments to older adults and recently published a book on enhancing emotional wellbeing in residential aged care environments. Julie has developed several preventative psychological group programs for older adults entering residential care which won Positive Living in Aged Care Awards.

Notes

Content advisory note: The following educational activity may contain content related to sensitive topics, including but not limited to, trauma, violence, abuse, self-harm and suicide, cultural sensitivities, and more. These subjects can be distressing and may evoke strong emotional responses. Please take care of your well-being and we encourage you to take breaks and/or seek support if needed.