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PSY 689 Week 7 | Final Program Evaluation Report | 2025 Update with complete
solutions.
Final Program Evaluation Report
Michael Cummings
Department of Psychology, Keiser University
PSY689: Capstone II
Dr. Mendelson
April 27th, 2025
, 2
Golden Years Mental Health Services
Introduction:
Golden Years Mental Health Services is an agency committed to supporting older adults
with depression, located in Bradenton Florida. It is understood that aging adults face many
transition phases that can have a detrimental impact on mental health. The Older Adult
Depression Program utilizes individualized care specifically designed for this age group.
Evidence-based approaches, such as Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), are utilized to ease
symptoms of depression in older adults. Here at Golden Years Mental Health Services our
trained mental health professionals, a multidisciplinary group, promote a supportive and
empathetic environment. In such an environment, older adults are encouraged to explore and
verbalize feelings and explore painful experiences in life. Depression in older adults can present
in a manner vastly different from its expression in youth and adults. Our multidimensional
approach incorporates therapeutic interventions and supportive care, allowing for ease in guiding
clients in finding joy and purpose in life. Golden Years Mental Health Services aims to develop
strong relationships and overall improvement in life for its clients. We work towards
empowering older adults to face life at this stage with hope and resilience. Our purpose is to
ensure that all seniors receive mental health care in a manner that enables them to flourish.
The Problem:
As individuals move into the later stages of their lives, they often face a series of
transformative events that can deeply affect their mental and emotional health (Blazer, 2003).
One of the most significant changes occurs during retirement. This transition is often celebrated
for the freedom it offers from the demands of daily work, yet it can simultaneously provoke a
whirlwind of mixed emotions. Many retirees find themselves savoring the absence of a rigid
, 3
schedule and indulging in the luxury of leisure time. However, this newfound freedom can
quickly lead to feelings of disorientation and bewilderment, as they struggle to redefine their
identities and find a sense of purpose outside of their careers.
Adding to the complexity of this life stage is the profound experience of loss. The death
of cherished loved ones—be it spouses, friends, or family members—can evoke a deep sense of
grief that permeates every aspect of life. This sorrow can manifest as a powerful emptiness, a
haunting absence that lingers in daily activities, creating a heavy emotional burden that is often
difficult to bear. The bereaved may find themselves navigating a rollercoaster of emotions, from
anger and guilt to profound sadness, all of which can impact their overall mental well-being
(Alexopoulos, 2005).
The gradual decline in physical health and stamina can introduce another layer of
emotional distress. As physical strength diminishes, and ailments become more prevalent, older
adults may start to experience feelings of fragility and isolation (Blazer, 2003). Daily tasks that
were once manageable can become daunting challenges, leading to increased dependence on
others and a loss of autonomy. This vulnerability can heighten feelings of loneliness, as
individuals may withdraw from social interactions, fearing that their declining abilities will
alienate them from peers.
The culmination of these experiences transitioning into retirement, dealing with profound
loss, and coping with diminishing physical health can create a perfect storm for mental health
struggles, including depression and anxiety. As such, it becomes imperative for older adults to
seek and cultivate a nurturing and supportive environment. This includes fostering meaningful
relationships and social connections, which can provide essential emotional support and a sense
of belonging during this critical and often challenging period of life (Raue et al., 2017).
PSY 689 Week 7 | Final Program Evaluation Report | 2025 Update with complete
solutions.
Final Program Evaluation Report
Michael Cummings
Department of Psychology, Keiser University
PSY689: Capstone II
Dr. Mendelson
April 27th, 2025
, 2
Golden Years Mental Health Services
Introduction:
Golden Years Mental Health Services is an agency committed to supporting older adults
with depression, located in Bradenton Florida. It is understood that aging adults face many
transition phases that can have a detrimental impact on mental health. The Older Adult
Depression Program utilizes individualized care specifically designed for this age group.
Evidence-based approaches, such as Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT), are utilized to ease
symptoms of depression in older adults. Here at Golden Years Mental Health Services our
trained mental health professionals, a multidisciplinary group, promote a supportive and
empathetic environment. In such an environment, older adults are encouraged to explore and
verbalize feelings and explore painful experiences in life. Depression in older adults can present
in a manner vastly different from its expression in youth and adults. Our multidimensional
approach incorporates therapeutic interventions and supportive care, allowing for ease in guiding
clients in finding joy and purpose in life. Golden Years Mental Health Services aims to develop
strong relationships and overall improvement in life for its clients. We work towards
empowering older adults to face life at this stage with hope and resilience. Our purpose is to
ensure that all seniors receive mental health care in a manner that enables them to flourish.
The Problem:
As individuals move into the later stages of their lives, they often face a series of
transformative events that can deeply affect their mental and emotional health (Blazer, 2003).
One of the most significant changes occurs during retirement. This transition is often celebrated
for the freedom it offers from the demands of daily work, yet it can simultaneously provoke a
whirlwind of mixed emotions. Many retirees find themselves savoring the absence of a rigid
, 3
schedule and indulging in the luxury of leisure time. However, this newfound freedom can
quickly lead to feelings of disorientation and bewilderment, as they struggle to redefine their
identities and find a sense of purpose outside of their careers.
Adding to the complexity of this life stage is the profound experience of loss. The death
of cherished loved ones—be it spouses, friends, or family members—can evoke a deep sense of
grief that permeates every aspect of life. This sorrow can manifest as a powerful emptiness, a
haunting absence that lingers in daily activities, creating a heavy emotional burden that is often
difficult to bear. The bereaved may find themselves navigating a rollercoaster of emotions, from
anger and guilt to profound sadness, all of which can impact their overall mental well-being
(Alexopoulos, 2005).
The gradual decline in physical health and stamina can introduce another layer of
emotional distress. As physical strength diminishes, and ailments become more prevalent, older
adults may start to experience feelings of fragility and isolation (Blazer, 2003). Daily tasks that
were once manageable can become daunting challenges, leading to increased dependence on
others and a loss of autonomy. This vulnerability can heighten feelings of loneliness, as
individuals may withdraw from social interactions, fearing that their declining abilities will
alienate them from peers.
The culmination of these experiences transitioning into retirement, dealing with profound
loss, and coping with diminishing physical health can create a perfect storm for mental health
struggles, including depression and anxiety. As such, it becomes imperative for older adults to
seek and cultivate a nurturing and supportive environment. This includes fostering meaningful
relationships and social connections, which can provide essential emotional support and a sense
of belonging during this critical and often challenging period of life (Raue et al., 2017).
