Geriatric Psychiatry

DEFINITION

• Subspecialty of psychiatry dealing with the prevention, treatment, and study of mental disorders in older patients, typically older than 65 years[1]
• Common diseases and disorders include dementia, depression, substance use disorder(s), and insomnia.
  • Some older adults may present with a late-onset mood disorder or psychotic disorder.
  • Also treated are conditions which have been chronic or recurrent since earlier in adulthood (e.g., mood disorders, psychotic disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders).
• Geriatric psychiatry integrates a comprehensive program of care to address coexisting medical illnesses, family and social concerns, environmental issues, and medications.
• It’s important to take into consideration physical debility leading to activity limitations and financial barriers when treating mental health conditions in the geriatric population as these are known barriers to receiving appropriate care.[2]