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Top 5 articles for psychiatrists who treat the elderly
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More than 20% of adults aged 60 years and older have a mental or neurological disorder and 6.6% of all disability-adjusted life years in this age group are attributed to neurological and mental health disorders, according to WHO.
Dementia and depression are the most common neuropsychiatric disorders among the elderly. Anxiety disorders occur in 3.8% of older adults and approximately 1% have a substance use disorder.
WHO estimated approximately 25% of deaths from self-harm occur among those aged 60 years or older.
Mental health problems are under-identified by health care professionals and older individuals themselves, according to WHO. Further, the stigma of mental illness increases individuals’ reluctance to seek help.
Healio.com/Psychiatry collected the most popular articles in geriatric psychiatry in 2016.
Vitamin D deficiency increased dementia, Alzheimer's disease risk
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk for dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, according to recent study findings published in Neurology. Read more
Sniff test accurately screens for early Alzheimer's disease
Odor identification may be an accurate and useful supplement to Alzheimer’s disease screening, according to recent findings. Read more
Minimal benzodiazepine exposure may slightly increase dementia risk
Recent findings did not indicate a causal association between benzodiazepine use and dementia, though individuals with minimal exposure to benzodiazepines exhibited a slightly higher risk for dementia. Read more
Exercise, brain ‘cross-training,’ colorful diet improves aging process
SAN ANTONIO — Engaging in exercise, cognitive training activities and following a Mediterranean diet are key to a healthy aging process, according to a presentation at the U.S. Psychiatric and Mental Health Congress. Read more
Research highlights importance of social su pport for bereaved older adults
PHILADELPHIA — Data presented here suggest that interventions for bereaved older adults may be more effective if they address social support, particularly among those with high anxiety. Read more