Gerontology Resources in PsycINFO Topics in PsycINFO of Relevance to Gerontology PsycINFO is a research database published by the American Psychological Association. Health care professionals of all types can find research on working with elderly patients with a variety of psychological and physical needs. Sample Searches in Gerontology Scenario: A social worker would like to find some research supporting the value of social support networks in the lives of older adults. Search: Aging AND Social Support Results: Articles looking at older adults' relationships, and how those personal ties may impact their mental health and well being. Prefer to have this information as a handout? For a postcard-sized version of this guide (and others) that you can produce on your library’s color printer, visit

Sample Searches in Gerontology Scenario: A family physician wants to know more about the types of problems caused by misuse of medication by elderly patients with multiple prescriptions. Search: Polypharmacy, use the Age Group limiter to select Aged (65 yrs & older) Results: Studies that examine why patients misuse medications, and how to ensure treatment compliance. Includes research looking at patients with particular diseases and disorders. Scenario: A psychotherapy student would like to learn more about treating elderly patients with major depression. Search: Major Depression AND Geriatric Psychotherapy Results: Articles exploring a variety of different types of treatments for depression in older adults, including using memories in psychotherapy. Gerontology Resources in PsycINFO

Selected Search Terms The search terms provided here are just a few excerpts from the many relevant terms in PsycINFO’s thesaurus. If you aren’t sure how to use these terms (called Subject Terms, Subject Headings, or Index Terms depending on your interface), check with your librarian or consult the PsycINFO Quick Reference Guide you may also have received at the same time as this handout.  Health Care Issues  Advance Directives  Alzheimer’s Disease  Caregiver Burden  Dementia  Elder Abuse  Falls  Major Depression  Medicare  Polypharmacy  Wandering Behavior  Life Changes  Activities of Daily Living  Adult Offspring  Ageism  Aging (Attitudes Toward)  Cognitive Ability  Generation Gap  Life Expectancy  Physical Mobility  Retirement  Self Care Skills  Social Support

Gerontology Resources in PsycINFO  Living Arrangements  Adult Day Care  Aging in Place  Assisted Living  Home Care  Homebound  Independent Living Programs  Long Term Care  Nursing Homes  Palliative Care  Retirement Communities  Retirement Activities  Art  Exercise  Leisure Time  Physical Activity  Traveling  Fields of Study  Geriatric Psychiatry  Geriatric Psychotherapy  Geriatrics  Gerontology  Geropsychology  Health Care Services  Caregivers  Community Services  Health Personnel  Home Care Personnel  Treatment Planning