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Using the Threat Probability Task to Assess Anxiety and Fear During Uncertain and Certain Threat
Published on: September 12, 2014
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[Anxiety disorder].
Maiko Hayashida1, Jun Horiguchi
1Department of Psychiatry, Shimane University Faculty of Medicine.
Nihon Rinsho. Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine
|November 23, 2013
Summary
Anxiety disorder in older adults is often missed, leading to significant disability. Effective treatment, including medication and therapy, can greatly improve quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Public Health
Context:
- Anxiety disorder (AD) is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated in older adults.
- Anxiety symptoms in the elderly can mimic or overlap with other medical conditions.
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a common diagnosis in later life, often co-occurring with depression.
Purpose:
- To highlight the challenges in diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders in older adults.
- To review current and recommended pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatment options for late-life anxiety.
- To emphasize the impact of anxiety on quality of life (QOL) in the elderly.
Summary:
- Anxiety disorders in older adults present unique diagnostic challenges due to symptom overlap with medical conditions.
- While benzodiazepines have been traditional treatments, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are safer alternatives to TCAs.
- Comprehensive treatment involves pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, and complementary therapies, addressing the substantial QOL impairments associated with late-life AD.
Impact:
- Effective management of anxiety disorders in older adults is crucial for reducing disability.
- Timely and appropriate treatment of anxiety can significantly predict improvements in quality of life for the elderly.
- Increased awareness and improved treatment strategies can enhance geriatric mental healthcare outcomes.
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