Bereavement and complicated grief

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Psychiatry
• Mental Health

Background:

• Bereavement is a common experience for adults aged 60 and older.
• Acute grief, characterized by yearning and intrusive thoughts, typically evolves into integrated grief.
• However, approximately 7% of bereaved older adults develop Complicated Grief (CG).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent publications on the diagnosis of Complicated Grief (CG) in older adults.
• To identify risk factors associated with the development of CG in this demographic.
• To summarize evidence-based treatments for CG.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent publications.
• Focus on studies addressing diagnosis, risk factors, and treatments for CG.
• Analysis of findings specific to the older adult population.

Main Results:

• Complicated Grief (CG) involves persistent, impairing grief symptoms that derail the natural progression to integrated grief.
• Key risk factors for CG in older adults are discussed.
• Evidence-based treatment modalities for CG are presented.

Conclusions:

• Complicated Grief (CG) is a distinct mental health condition requiring specific attention in older adults.
• Early detection and intervention are crucial for managing CG.
• Further research and clinical focus on CG in older populations are warranted.