Geriatric Psychiatrist Q&A

A geriatric psychiatrist works with patients during later adulthood to improve their overall mental health and quality of life. This field of psychology focuses on the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of unique mental health struggles found in the later stages of life. Geriatric psychiatrists have the specialized training needed to understand both the biological and psychosocial factors that can affect the mental health of older patients. Aging is a natural part of life that can be met with complicated feelings, emotions, and disorders you may not be prepared for. Our psychiatrists can help you through this unfamiliar road and provide you with the professional support you deserve.

The three most common diagnoses in geriatric psychiatry are depression, dementia, and delirium. Each of these diagnoses comes with its own symptoms and treatment options.

Depression

Depression in older adults otherwise referred to as geriatric depression is a mental health disorder that can severely affect one’s mood and perspective on life. If left untreated, geriatric depression can lead to major depressive disorder and increased chances of suicide. This type of depression can be caused by genetics, trauma, and low levels of important neurotransmitter chemicals responsible for happiness. Adults who have limited mobility, have lost a loved one, or have had difficulties transitioning into later life are at risk of developing geriatric depression. Symptoms to look out for may include sadness, apathy, irritability, chronic fatigue, anger outbursts, restlessness, insomnia, and suicidal ideation.

Dementia

Dementia can be caused by Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other diseases that cause loss of memory. Not only does dementia cause deterioration in brain function, but it can also lead to a serious deterioration in mental health. Without the proper diagnosis and treatment, dementia can lead to depression, anxiety, general sadness, and confusion. Having regular psychiatry care while managing symptoms of dementia can immensely increase patients’ overall mental well-being.

Delirium

Delirium can be scary for geriatric patients, their family members, and their caretakers. Within just a few short hours, delirium can cause major disturbances such as reduced awareness, cognitive impairment, hallucinations, combative behavior, and severe emotional disturbances. While dementia and delirium can be easily confused, it is very common for elderly patients to have both. A geriatric psychiatrist can attempt to find the root cause of delirium and prevent delirium outbursts.

The elderly can face just as many mental health conditions as younger patients. The most common illnesses in the elderly are dementia, depression, generalized anxiety, Alzheimer’s disease, bipolar, and schizophrenia.

Geriatric psychology is an incredibly important branch of psychiatry that shouldn’t be overlooked. It has numerous benefits that can greatly improve the lives of millions of people in later adulthood. These specialized psychiatrists can assess, diagnose, and treat numerous mental health concerns. This can ease the mind of both the patient and their patient’s family. If you or someone you care about could benefit from seeing a geriatric mental health professional, contact Psychiatry of the Palm Beaches. Our team would love to answer any questions you have about our clinic and our geriatric psychiatry services. We care deeply about our patients and want to help them succeed in all stages of life. Deteriorating mental health in the elderly should be taken very seriously and treated right away. For more information, call us today or book an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you. We serve patients from Boynton Beach FL, Delray Beach FL, Palm Beach Gardens FL, Jupiter FL, Stuart FL, Palm City FL, Royal Palm Beach FL, Wellington FL, Vero Beach FL, Citrus Ridge FL, Plantation FL, Sunrise FL, Jacksonville FL, Riverside FL, Port St. Lucie FL, Beau Rivage West FL, Melbourne FL, Palm Bay FL, and surrounding areas.