Responding to Mental Health Needs of the Elderly in Rural Areas: A Collaborative Geriatric Education Center Model

In Iowa, the percentage of elderly persons in rural areas has increased dramatically in the past decade. Although delivery of mental health services to the rural elderly is a statewide and national priority, at present, too few health professionals are adequately prepared to meet this need. The rural elderly have limited access to psychiatrists and are underserved by Community Mental Health Centers. Therefore, general practitioners, public health nurses, social service workers and other core disciplines who participate in Iowa Geriatric Education Center (IGEC) educational and training programs must be able to understand the mental health needs of this population, provide basic care, and make referrals for needed services. From the inception of the Iowa Geriatric Education Center, an effort was made to incorporate clincial and service delivery into the IGEC curriculum. Through affiliation with the Rural Elderly Outreach Program, participants in IGEC programs have an opportunity to learn more about geriatric mental health and service delvery issues in rural settings.