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PTSD in older bereaved people
1Department of Psychology, University of Aarhus, Denmark. maja@psy.au.dk
Aging & Mental Health
|August 6, 2010
Summary
Older adults experiencing spousal loss are at significant risk for developing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study found PTSD prevalence in bereaved seniors comparable to general bereaved populations, highlighting its importance in late-life grief.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
Background:
- Late-life bereavement, particularly spousal loss, is linked to psychological distress, primarily depression.
- Emerging evidence suggests posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is also a significant concern in older adults following bereavement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of PTSD in recently bereaved older adults compared to non-bereaved married controls.
- To investigate if late-life spousal bereavement can precipitate PTSD, challenging prior assumptions.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 296 Danish older adults (mean age 73) were assessed two months post-bereavement.
- A control group of 276 married older adults was included for comparison.
- Prevalence of PTSD and depression was measured using self-report questionnaires.
Main Results:
- PTSD was diagnosed in 16% of bereaved individuals versus 4% of controls (Cohen's d = 0.74).
- Mild to severe depression was reported by 37% of the bereaved and 22% of controls (Cohen's d = 0.37).
- The prevalence of PTSD was higher than depression in the initial months post-bereavement.
Conclusions:
- Late-life spousal bereavement leads to PTSD with a frequency similar to general bereaved populations.
- PTSD is a critical consideration in understanding psychological reactions to bereavement in older adults.
- The elevated PTSD rates underscore the need for targeted mental health support for grieving seniors.
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