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Threshold and subthreshold generalized anxiety disorder in later life
Beyon Miloyan1, Gerard J Byrne2, Nancy A Pachana1
1School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
Summary
Subthreshold generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is common in older adults and linked to persistent disability, suggesting it should be viewed dimensionally. Early identification and intervention are needed.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Anxiety disorders are prevalent in older adults but often underdiagnosed.
- Late-life generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) requires further investigation regarding prevalence and correlates.
Purpose of the Study:
- Estimate prevalence of threshold and subthreshold GAD in older adults.
- Examine sociodemographic and health correlates of GAD.
- Assess 3-year conversion rates and predictors of GAD.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from 13,420 participants aged 55-98 years.
- Employed Waves 1 and 2 of the National Epidemiological Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions.
Main Results:
- Subthreshold GAD was more prevalent than threshold GAD.
- Subthreshold GAD showed intermediate health severity.
- Disability persisted at follow-up, but subthreshold GAD did not predict threshold GAD.
Conclusions:
- Late-life GAD may be better conceptualized as a dimensional construct.
- Subthreshold GAD has clinical significance due to persistent disability.
- Intervention efficacy for subthreshold GAD needs further study.
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