Experiences of a Private-Practice Psychiatrist Working with the Elderly in the Community

Group therapy for depressed elderly women

We describe and evaluate a group therapy program targeting depression among elderly residents (N=303) of subsidized high-rise apartments in Nashville, TN. This eclectic program was comprised of 12 sessions (a total of 24 hours) that included modules on exercise and preventive health behaviors, cognitive and re-motivation therapy, reminiscence and grief therapy, and social skills development. Our multivariate regression analyses of pre-post measures using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) showed that the effects of the group therapy varied by race, age, and level of initial depression among the participants. The program was effective in reducing depression, but only among Caucasian women who reported at least moderate depression prior to the program, and it yielded greater benefits for women between 55 and 75 years of age.

Behavioral and psychologic symptoms of dementia

Although tremendous strides with regard to identification and treatment of BPSD have been made over the last several decades, much work remains. Presently, BPSD research opportunities are at their greatest. The increasing worldwide social and economic impact of BPSD, however, requires that researchers, clinicians, and scientists develop a global network focused on collaboration and innovation. In particular, research must address cross-culturally applicable methods for assessment, exploration of the environmental relationships of BPSD and the underlying biologic and psychologic substrates, longitudinal evaluation, determination of the frequency and underlying pathogenic mechanisms, and development of a clearly defined treatment method profile with specific reference to different types of BPSD [134].