Geriatric Psychiatry

Service Description

Geriatric psychiatry focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental health disorders in older adults (65+). This subspecialty addresses the unique psychological and social challenges associated with aging. Common Geriatric Psychiatry Conditions: 1. Dementia (Alzheimer's, vascular) 2. Depression 3. Anxiety disorders 4. Bipolar disorder 5. Psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia) 6. Substance abuse 7. Sleep disorders 8. Personality disorders 9. Trauma and stress-related disorders Geriatric Psychiatry Treatment Approaches: 1. Pharmacotherapy (medications) 2. Psychotherapy (cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal) 3. Behavioral therapy 4. Cognitive stimulation therapy 5. Family therapy 6. Group therapy 7. Psychosocial interventions Geriatric Psychiatry Considerations: 1. Age-related cognitive changes 2. Comorbid medical conditions 3. Polypharmacy (multiple medications) 4. Social isolation 5. Caregiver burden 6. End-of-life care 7. Cultural sensitivity Assessment Tools: 1. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) 2. Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) 3. Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) 4. Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) Geriatric Psychiatry Settings: 1. Nursing homes 2. Assisted living facilities 3. Hospitals (geriatric units) 4. Outpatient clinics 5. Community mental health centers 6. Home-based care Geriatric Psychiatry Professionals: 1. Geriatric psychiatrists 2. Geropsychologists 3. Social workers 4. Gerontological nurses 5. Occupational therapists Resources: 1. American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (AAGP) 2. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) - Older Adults 3. Geriatric Mental Health Foundation 4. Alzheimer's Association 5. National Council on Aging (NCOA)