Trauma-Informed Practices for Working with Older Adults

This one-day, evidence-informed training invites practitioners, caregivers, and service providers to explore how trauma shapes the experiences, behaviours, and well-being of older adults. Using a human-centered and relational lens, participants will examine the lifelong impact of trauma, how it may resurface in later life, and the ways loss, transition, and vulnerability can activate protective responses in the aging brain and body.

Grounded in current research from neuroscience, gerontology, and trauma studies, this training blends theory with reflection, discussion, and applied practice. Participants will learn to recognize trauma responses, apply trauma-informed communication and care strategies, and foster emotional and relational safety with older adults—whether in home visits, health care, outreach, or community settings.

By the end of the session, learners will walk away with practical tools, deeper empathy, and renewed capacity to engage older adults with dignity, safety, and respect.

“Know” Knowledge & Understanding

• Understand how trauma and adversity across the lifespan influence the aging process—physically, emotionally, and socially.
• Identify the ways trauma may present in older adults, including withdrawal, aggression, shame, hoarding, hyper-independence, and mistrust.
• Recognize the role of safety, choice, and control as central pillars of trauma-informed care for older adults.
• Explore the intersection of trauma with ageism, loss of autonomy, chronic illness, and cognitive decline.

“Do” Apply Skills & Practice

• Apply trauma-informed communication and engagement strategies that prioritize emotional safety and trust.
• Integrate reflective listening, attention, and grounding techniques to de-escalate stress responses in older adults.
• Adapt assessment and goal-setting practices through a compassionate, person-first lens.
• Strengthen collaboration and boundaries when supporting older adults in complex emotional or relational situations.

“Be” Professional Growth & Transformation

• Deepen self-awareness of personal triggers, biases, and values when working with older adults.
• Cultivate reflective practice and compassion resilience to prevent burnout and secondary trauma.
• Shift from a “fixing” mindset to one that emphasizes empowerment, connection, and mutual respect.