title: Awareness of ageism, motivation, and countertransference in the care of elders with Alzheimer's disease.
abstract: This article focuses on the importance of a practitioner's awareness of ageism, motivation, and countertransference in working with elders with dementia. These factors have the capacity to significantly affect a professional's performance. Additionally, they may also affect the type and quality of services a memory-impaired client receives. Ageism is discussed at the micro, mezzo, and macro level, and practitioners are urged to develop an increased awareness of the effects of ageism on client/service options and as well as practitioner's beliefs. Monitoring professional motivation and being aware of countertransference are important considerations in practitioner-client relationships. Professionals are encouraged to incorporate personal introspection and consultation or supervision to ensure that clients receive the most appropriate service available. Case examples are provided to illustrate concepts.
authors.affiliation: School of Social Work, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, USA.
authors.forename: Michael N
authors.initials: MN
authors.lastname: Kane
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology*; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001364:Awareness; D003379:Countertransference; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation; D010344:Patient Advocacy / Q000523:psychology; D010348:Patient Care Team; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D011287:Prejudice