APA Holds Congressional Briefing on Geropsychology

The Public Policy Office in coordination with the Public Interest and Education Directorates and the Committee on Aging held a Congressional Briefing on March 14, 2002, entitled, the Contributions of Geropsychologists to an Aging America, sponsored by Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR). Five psychologists from across the country flew in to the nation’s capital to speak to Senate staff and association representatives regarding the valuable role geropsychologists play in the lives of older Americans. Antonette Zeiss, PhD, from the Palo Alto Veterans Administration Health Care System, spoke about the value of an interdisciplinary team approach to health care for older adults and the essential role of geropsychologists. Forrest Scogin, PhD, from the University of Alabama, told the group about the prevalence of depression among older persons, how to assess and treat depression and prevent suicide. Michael Duffy, PhD, from Texas A&M University, explained the need for psychological services in long-term care settings and the role of geropsychologists in treating dementia. Jane Fisher, PhD, University of Nevada-Reno, presented on promoting the health and independence of older persons and alleviating the burdens of their caregivers. Lastly, Beth Hudnall Stamm, PhD, Idaho State University, described the mental and behavioral needs of rural and ethnic minority older adults.

In addition, the presenters and other APA members in attendance met with their Senators, Representatives and members of their staff to garner support for the graduate training in geropsychology. Many of the offices visited included members of key Congressional Appropriations committees. The Hill visits were successful in creating wide-range interest and support for the geropsychology training initiative that has now been combined with the Graduate Psychology Education (GPE) initiative based upon suggestions by many congressional legislators and staff. APA members were very enthusiastic about their opportunity to meet and talk with individuals on the Hill and are working on follow-up visits with their Congressional leaders at their state offices.

APA is seeking $6 million to continue the Graduate Psychology Education (GPE) program housed in the Bureau of Health Professions, and within these funds hopes to have $3 million allocated specifically to launch a federal program to support graduate psychology study with a specialty in aging. The GPE program would award funds (through a competitive grant process) to APA accredited doctoral programs and internship sites to train health service psychologists to work in areas of national need, including elderly, children and those in rural and urban communities.

More information on GPE advocacy efforts