Date of Submission

Winter 12-15-2024

Document Type

Manuscript

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Dr. Jo Loomis

Second Advisor

Dr. Alicia Kletter

Abstract

People with severe mental illness (SMI) who are cared for by aging parents are a growing concern within the community, due to their potential high utilization on healthcare facilities and community infrastructure. Many utilize hospitals and emergency departments to seek behavioral, social, and housing support instead of outpatient behavioral healthcare. There is a disconnect in finding social support that is a result of learned reliance and dependence on their aging parents for financial and caregiving support. Healthcare providers should be mindful of the long-term issues this population faces once they are without parental support, such as increased risks for criminality and worsened health outcomes. Awareness of community resources such as supportive housing, vocational services, psychiatric advanced directive, and peer support groups is of increasing importance when treating this population to ensure improved outcomes and patient empowerment.

Included in

Nursing Commons

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