Older adults with a higher rate of untreated depression experienced negative outcomes with overcoming physical ailments like cancer and heart disease. A person’s immunity is also lessened, compromising their ability to fight infections.

Co-Morbid Mental Illness in Geriatric Adults 

Common co-morbid conditions include heart attack, hypertension, diabetes, stroke, high blood cholesterol, asthma, arthritis, osteoporosis, chronic lung disease, cancer or malignant tumor, stomach or duodenal ulcer, Parkinson's, cataract, and hip fracture or femoral fracture. 

Co-Morbid Physical Illness in Geriatric Adults

Older adults are most commonly are diagnosed with depression, anxiety, insomnia, substance abuse, suicidal ideation, and dementia. 

Common Mental Health Conditions in Geriatric Adults

- Physical Chronic Disorders
- Mental Chronic Disorders
- Co-Morbid Disorders

Santa Clara University

Geropsychology is the field that studies the psychological impact of aging and its influence on the declining quality of life. Typically, people over the age of 65 are considered geriartic. 


Geropsychology

The mental health problems of older adults get overlooked due to the more pressing issues that arise with physical conditions and lessened mobility. But psychologists recommend addressing the following areas of concern: 
- Adjustment to stressors in late life
- Counseling
- Capacity Assessment
- Caregiving by family or facility
- Establish psychoeducational support groups
- End-of-life care


Treatment Focuses for Geriatric Patients

Older adults may face tremendous difficulties in coping with their increasing disability and physical conditions with the onset of a mental illness. Furthermore, they may struggle to adequately help other people, like a sick spouse, or retain a good relationship with family members. This results in them feeling isolated and experiencing more intense effects of their mental condition.

Effects of Late-Life Mental Illness

Severity of Health Problems in Older Adults

Ageism is a form of prejudice and discrimination directed at individuals solely because of their age, often stemming from societal judgments and expectations. While commonly associated with negative attitudes toward older adults—such as viewing them as incompetent, physically weak, or slow—ageism can also be directed at younger adults, who may be stereotyped as immature and irresponsible.

Ageism

The number of people who hold jobs that support the older population. 

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