Clinical assessment in old age psychiatry

Abstract

Psychiatric assessment in elderly individuals requires a particular focus on cognition and co-morbid physical illness. There can be differences in psychiatric manifestation between younger and older adults. A structured approach to history-taking with a good understanding of the diagnostic hierarchy of psychiatric disorders allows for a clear biopsychosocial formulation. For organic conditions, particularly with cognitive and neurobehavioural deficits, management must be informed by the real-world impact of these problems.