Concise Guide to Geriatric Psychiatry

For the first time in history, most people in societies such as our own can plan on growing old. But longer average life expectancies (76.5 years in the United States) also bring increased risk. At least 12% of elderly Americans—and an astounding 30%–50% of those seen in primary care or hospitalized for medical conditions—have diagnosable mental disorders (e.g., cognitive impairment, affective and anxiety disorders).

Yet older people are poorly served by the mental health system, with its roadblocks of limited reimbursement and access, attitudes about aging, fewer psychotherapy referrals, and limited training in geriatric psychiatry. This third edition of a uniquely valuable pocket guide offers the latest research and practical advice for successfully diagnosing and treating elderly patients. The authors cover normal aging, mood and anxiety disorders, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, delirium, common mental disorders, and competency and related forensic issues such as informed consent.

Clearly written and extensively illustrated, this informative guide also features an appendix of essential rating scales for depression, cognitive skills, and delirium. As such, it is a "must read" for all mental health professionals who work with the elderly and are challenged not only to identify and treat specific psychiatric disorders, but also to provide education, support, and preventive interventions to help older people and their families manage the common stresses of aging.

James E. Spar, M.D., is Professor of Psychiatry, Director of the Division of Geriatric Psychiatry, and Director of Residency Education in the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences at the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Medicine.

Asenath La Rue, Ph.D., is Professor of Psychiatry at the University of New Mexico School of Medicine.