Aging and Loss: shouldn’t it get easier? - Tuesday, Sept 16, 2025

Research shows that older adults face unique challenges when coping with grief, often putting them at a higher risk for complicated or prolonged grief responses. As social workers, understanding the nuances of grief in aging populations is essential to providing meaningful support.

In this engaging and practical workshop, we will explore grief and loss through the lens of aging, examining the four categories of loss most commonly experienced by older adults—from bereavement to the subtle, cumulative changes that can deeply impact well-being. Participants will gain a solid foundation in grief theories and learn how to apply them in practice with older adults, as well as strategies for distinguishing between normal grief and prolonged grief disorder.

Through discussion, reflection, and hands-on learning, we will also consider risk factors that contribute to grief complications and explore interventions for assessment and grief work that can foster resilience and healing. Whether you are new to working with older adults or looking to deepen your expertise, this workshop will equip you with the insight and tools to confidently support clients navigating one of life’s most profound

1. Will be able to name 4 categories of losses experienced by older adults
2. Will name several grief theories and how to apply them to grieving older adults
3. Will be able to distinguish the differences between normal grief and prolonged grief disorder

CEUs: 2 General
Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Location: Zoom
Requirements: Webcam (participants must be on camera)
Presentera: Lindsey Henry LMSW, Liz Griswold LCSW-C, APHSWCbr>  

Presenter Information:

Lindsey Henry, LMSW is a master's level social worker currently working in the palliative care field. She graduated this summer with her master's degree in Palliative Care. She has experience in geriatrics and dementia care, as well as a passion for patient rights and autonomy. When she's not working, Lindsey enjoys reading, going to Orange Theory Fitness, and spending time with her husband and two children.

Liz Griswold, LCSW-C, ACHP-SW joined the Palliative Care Team at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland in 2014. Prior to that Liz was working as Director of Social Services in a small urban nursing home where she developed an interest in restoring dignity and honor to the experience of aging and end of life. She received her Master’s in Social Work from the University of Maryland and a post-master’s certificate in End of Life Care from the Smith College School of Social Work. Her professional interests include grief, bereavement, and the impact of culture on illness and dying.