Understanding Attachment in Older People ― Strengths-based Approaches for Support

The significance of attachment theory for working with older people has been overlooked, and yet its importance is clear - evident in the experiences of people who struggle to adapt to new ways of living, to life with limiting health conditions, or to new social networks.This book explains how an understanding of attachment theory can empower health and social care staff, and improve the care of older people. It also serves as an accessible introduction to strengths-based working, covering principles and practice as well as key practice issues such as positive risk-taking, supporting people with dementia, working in end of life settings and working with whole families.With in-depth case studies depicting a broad span of experiences and easy to use tools for practice, this practical guide serves as an essential guide for all staff supporting older adults.This hands-on guide will help frontline workers convert this policy vision into practice.

Imogen Blood is a qualified social worker with experience in research and policy on older people's housing, care and support. She is the Director of Imogen Blood & Associates Ltd., in Manchester, UK.Lydia Guthrie is a qualified social worker and systemic practitioner who specialises in applying attachment theory in social work and mental health settings. She is Co-Director at Change Point Learning Ltd., and is based in Oxford, UK.