AGING 17 B. The client was encouraged to read books on the aging process (e. g., The Practical Guide to Aging by Cassel or Alzheimer's and Dementia: Questions You Have... Answers You Need by Hay). C. The client has read material regarding the aging process, and this was discussed within the clinical contact. D. The client has not read material regarding the aging process and was redirected to do so. 3. Clarify Emotions (3) A. The client was en couraged to share his/her emotions regarding aging issues (e. g., fear of abandonment, sadness regarding loss of abilities). B. The client has continued to share his/her feelings and has been assisted in identifying causes for them. C. Distorted cognitive messages contribute to the client's emotional response. D. The client demonstrated a sad affect and tearfulness when describing his/her feelings. E. As the client has developed better coping mechanisms, he/she reports a decrease in his/her feelings of a bandonment and sadness. 4. Teach Healthy Anger Expression (4) A. The client was taught about healthy ways to express anger (e. g., using writing, drawing, or the empty-chair technique). B. Writing, drawing, and the empty-chair technique have been helpful in allowing the client to express feelings of anger, hurt, or sadness. C. The client appeared uncomfortable with the use of anger expression techniques, had difficulty verbalizing his/her angry emotions, and was provided with additional encouragement in this area. 5. Coordinate Caregiver Training (5) A. Training was coordinated for caregivers in techniques of physical management and diffusion of the client's anger. B. The caregivers have been trained in physical management and anger diffusion technique s. C. Caregivers have used physical management and anger diffusion techniques to assist the client in decreasing his/her angry outbursts. 6. List Benefits of Aging Process (6) A. The client was asked to prepare a list of benefits that are related to the aging process. B. The client was provided with support and feedback as he/she shared his/her list of benefits that are related to the aging process (e. g., decreased work expectations, new residential opportunities). C. The client denied any benefits tha t are related to the aging process and was redirected to these areas. 7. Provide Information Regarding Aging and Mental Illness (7) A. The client was provided with specific information about the impact of the aging process on his/her mental illness. B. The tendency for severe and persistent mental illness symptoms to decrease in intensity as an individual ages was presented and discussed. 