Sample interview questions: Can you explain your familiarity with age-related changes in decision-making capacity and how it affects the counseling process?
Sample answer:
-
Decision-Making Capacity:
-
Normal Age-Related Changes: With aging, there may be subtle changes in cognitive abilities that could affect decision-making capacity. These changes can include:
- Reduced processing speed: Older adults may take longer to process information and make decisions.
- Reduced working memory: Older adults may have difficulty holding information in mind while making decisions.
- Reduced inhibitory control: Older adults may have difficulty suppressing irrelevant information when making decisions.
- Increased reliance on heuristics: Older adults may rely more on simplified rules of thumb (heuristics) rather than detailed analysis when making decisions.
-
Factors Affecting Decision-Making Capacity: Several factors can impact decision-making capacity in older adults, including:
- Physical health conditions: Chronic health conditions, such as dementia, stroke, or sensory impairments, can affect cognitive abilities and decision-making capacity.
- Mental health conditions: Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, can also impair decision-making capacity.
- Substance use: Alcohol and drug use can negatively affect cognitive abilities and decision-making.
- Social isolation: Social isolation and lack of social support can contribute to cognitive decline and impaired decision-making.
-
Implications for Counseling:
-
Assessment: Geriatric counselors should assess decision-making… Read full answer
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/7_0_35/Geriatric%20Counselor