Provider Research

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the mental health of older adults in long-term care (LTC) settings, particularly in terms of anxiety symptoms. In this study, Dr. Lisa Lind, PhD, ABPP, examines how the pandemic influenced anxiety trajectories in LTC residents, revealing that factors like pre-existing psychiatric conditions, medication use, and symptom severity were stronger predictors of anxiety outcomes than facility closures or telehealth availability. The findings underscore the importance of personalized care and treatment continuity during times of disruption. Explore the full study to learn how these insights can guide future care strategies in LTC settings.

This research, published in PubMed, highlights Deer Oaks’ ongoing efforts to improve behavioral health services in long-term care.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted mental health services in long-term care (LTC) settings, leaving residents without adequate access to care for extended periods. In this groundbreaking study, Dr. Lisa Lind, PhD, ABPP, and colleagues surveyed mental health clinicians to assess the pandemic’s impact on both patients and providers. The results reveal that while telehealth use increased, many residents endured emotional distress, loneliness, and worsened quality of life. Furthermore, over half of clinicians reported burnout, with nearly a third experiencing trauma from their work during the pandemic. This study offers invaluable insights for future pandemic preparedness and the continued delivery of essential mental health services.

Deer Oaks remains dedicated to improving mental health outcomes in LTC settings, using these findings to shape effective care strategies during challenging times.

As the aging population grows, ensuring that mental health professionals are equipped to serve older adults is more crucial than ever. In this article, Dr. Lisa Lind, PhD, ABPP, and colleagues provide a comprehensive guide to the foundational knowledge and competencies required for effective intervention, consultation, and service provision in geropsychology. Covering essential aspects like treatment adaptations for aging-related changes, interdisciplinary collaboration, ethical considerations, and legal practices, the article offers valuable insights for psychologists working in diverse care settings. Deer Oaks supports the development of these competencies to ensure that mental health professionals can deliver high-quality, ethical care to older adults in need.

At Deer Oaks, we are committed to fostering the growth of mental health professionals dedicated to improving the well-being of older adults.

As the needs of long-term care (LTC) residents evolve, so must the expertise of the psychologists who serve them. In this pivotal article, Dr. Lisa Lind, PhD, ABPP, and the Psychologists in Long-Term Care (PLTC) Guidelines Revision Task Force present updated guidelines that enhance psychological service delivery in LTC settings. Building on the original 1998 standards, the revised guidelines provide a roadmap for improving education, training, and ethical practices while addressing the growing diversity and complexity of LTC residents. Deer Oaks is committed to supporting these advancements, ensuring that mental health professionals are equipped to deliver high-quality, compassionate care in LTC environments.

At Deer Oaks, we believe that well-trained psychologists are key to improving the mental health and quality of life for residents in long-term care settings.