Anorexia nervosa in the older adult: a case study

Anorexia nervosa has been presented in the literature primarily as a disease affecting adolescent females. Although few cases are described involving older women, this appears to be related to a lack of recognition and identification. Given an understanding of the pathophysiology, the signs and symptoms, behaviors, psychological profile, and family dynamics, the clinical nurse specialist (CNS) is in a unique position to assess clients and provide intervention, including referrals. Through the clinical findings illustrated by the case study, the potential areas of intervention by the CNS can be extrapolated. First and foremost, anorexia nervosa must be seen as occurring outside the traditional age range and continuing into later adulthood.