Abstract
Unique developmental crises in old age may lead to social withdrawal that negatively affects the individual and his/her marital and family relationships. Without an awareness of these aging dynamics, the therapist can inadvertently perpetuate these distancing behaviors which can exacerbate marital and family conflict. This paper discusses certain developmental crises which can result in increased isolation for the older adult, and suggests therapeutic interventions to facilitate increased closeness among family members.
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Patten, P.C., Piercy, F.P. Dysfunctional isolation in the elderly: Increasing marital and family closeness through improved communication. Contemp Fam Ther 11, 131–147 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00892078
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00892078