This essential guide is designed for mental health practitioners and p rimary care providers without advanced training in geriatric psychiatr y. Gary J. Kennedy sets forth a clear framework for understanding the interplay of medical, psychological, and social factors in frequently encountered problems among older adults. Clear guidelines are delineat ed for assessing and treating such conditions as depression and anxiet y, dementia, psychosis and mania, sleep disturbances, personality and somatoform disorders, substance abuse, and suicidality. Throughout, th e book focuses on ways to sustain seniors' independence and overall qu ality of life while enhancing their adaptive capacities.