Older adults face a unique set of circumstances that can contribute to substance use problems. Substance misuse among seniors is frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed, highlighting the need for awareness and age-specific treatment approaches.
While schizophrenia is a primary cause of psychosis, it’s important to understand that psychotic experiences can manifest at any age and stem from various causes. Age-related differences in brain development, life experiences, and the presence of other physical or mental health conditions influence how psychosis presents and the diagnostic considerations.
Older adults are often susceptible to depression, yet it can be easily overlooked or misdiagnosed in this age group. It’s crucial to recognize the unique ways depression might manifest in seniors so they can get the help they need.
While often thought of as a young person’s illness, bipolar disorder can continue into older adulthood. Understanding how bipolar disorder presents and is managed in older adults is vital for ensuring proper diagnosis and treatment.
While some degree of worry is natural as we age, it’s important to recognize that anxiety disorders are not inevitable in older adults.