Geriatric Psychiatry
Our Geriatric Psychiatry department at Al Soor Specialist Clinic provides comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for mental health conditions in adults aged 65 and above.
Also known as psychogeriatrics, this specialized field addresses the unique mental health needs of the elderly.
Aging and Mental Health
The global population is aging rapidly due to increased life expectancy and declining birth rates. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the number of people aged 60 years and older is expected to double by 2050.
With this demographic shift comes a rise in age-related mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, dementia, and psychosis.
Common Psychiatric Disorders in the Elderly
Geriatric psychiatry deals with a range of psychiatric disorders, many of which present differently in older adults than in younger individuals. Some of the most prevalent conditions include:
Depression
- Late-life depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the elderly.
- It often goes undiagnosed due to overlapping symptoms with medical conditions, such as fatigue and weight loss.
- Unlike younger individuals, older adults with depression may exhibit more somatic complaints rather than expressing feelings of sadness.
- Untreated depression in seniors can lead to significant impairment, increased risk of medical comorbidities, and higher mortality rates.
Anxiety Disorders
- Anxiety in older adults often coexists with medical conditions like cardiovascular disease and chronic pain.
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and phobias are common.
- Symptoms may be less overt and instead manifest as excessive worry, restlessness, and sleep disturbances.
- Proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial as anxiety can significantly affect an elderly person’s quality of life.
3. Dementia and Cognitive Disorders
- Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease and other neurocognitive disorders, is a primary concern in geriatric psychiatry.
- These conditions lead to progressive cognitive decline, affecting memory, reasoning, and daily functioning.
- Behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), such as agitation, aggression, hallucinations, and depression, require careful management through both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.
Psychotic Disorders
- Late-onset schizophrenia and delusional disorders can emerge in older adults, often with different presentations than in younger patients.
- Hallucinations and paranoia may be associated with neurodegenerative diseases or medication side effects.
- Managing psychotic symptoms in the elderly requires balancing efficacy and safety, as they are more vulnerable to medication side effects.
5. Delirium
- Delirium in the elderly is an acute, often sudden-onset condition characterized by confusion, reduced awareness, and fluctuating cognitive abilities.
- It frequently manifests in hospital or care settings and can be triggered by infections, medications, dehydration, or metabolic imbalances.
- Early detection and intervention are critical to managing the underlying causes and improving recovery outcomes.
Factors Affecting Mental Health in Older Adults
Mental health in the elderly is influenced by a variety of biological, psychological, and social factors:
Biological Factors
Aging brings physiological changes that impact mental health. Neurotransmitter alterations, reduced neuroplasticity, and vascular changes can contribute to cognitive and mood disorders. Additionally, chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and arthritis can exacerbate psychiatric symptoms.
Psychological Factors
Life transitions, such as retirement, bereavement, and loss of independence, can trigger emotional distress. Older adults often face existential concerns, such as fear of death and unresolved past conflicts, which can contribute to psychiatric symptoms.
Social Factors
Isolation and loneliness are significant concerns in the elderly population. Changes in social roles, reduced family support, and limited mobility can lead to feelings of abandonment and depression. Economic insecurity and elder abuse also contribute to mental health challenges.
Assessment in Geriatric Psychiatry
A comprehensive assessment is crucial for diagnosing psychiatric disorders in older adults. It includes
- A clinical interview
- Cognitive tests
- Physical exams, lab tests
- Neuroimaging (MRI, CT)
- Collateral information from caregivers
Treatment Approaches in Geriatric Psychiatry
Managing psychiatric disorders in older adults requires a multimodal approach that integrates pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and social interventions.
Pharmacological Treatment
Medication management in geriatric psychiatry must be cautious due to age-related changes in drug metabolism and increased sensitivity to side effects.
Psychotherapy and Behavioural Interventions
Psychotherapy is an essential component of geriatric mental health care.
Social and Environmental Interventions
Improving social support and modifying the living environment can enhance mental well-being.
Addressing the unique needs of elderly individuals through comprehensive assessment, evidence-based treatments, and social support can significantly enhance their well-being.
Take the First Step
Wherever elderly need psychological evaluation or care, we’re here to help.
Contact Al Soor Specialist Clinic (on +971 6 5512913) today to schedule an appointment with our geriatric psychiatrist.
Together, we can work towards overcoming obstacles, building quality of life, and reclaiming the joy and fulfilment that the elderly deserve.