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Anxiety Disorders in Later Life.
Carly J Johnco1, Diana Matovic2, Viviana M Wuthrich3
1Macquarie University Lifespan Health & Wellbeing Research Centre, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia; School of Psychological Sciences, Australian Hearing Hub, 16 University Avenue, Macquarie Unviersity, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109 Australia.
The Psychiatric Clinics of North America
|November 6, 2024
Summary
Anxiety disorders affect about 1 in 10 older adults, often going unrecognized. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent negative health outcomes in seniors.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Anxiety disorders are less prevalent in older adults than younger adults, challenging ageist stereotypes.
- Despite lower prevalence, anxiety in older adults is frequently under-recognized and undertreated.
- Anxiety disorders in the elderly impact approximately 10% of this population, persisting over time.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the epidemiology and risk factors of anxiety in later life.
- To explore how anxiety symptom presentation varies in older adults compared to younger adults.
- To outline recommendations for the assessment and treatment of anxiety in older adults.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on anxiety in older adults.
- Epidemiological data analysis.
- Comparative analysis of anxiety symptomology across age groups.
Main Results:
- Anxiety disorders are associated with significant negative outcomes in older adults, including depression, cognitive decline, and functional impairment.
- Increased healthcare utilization and elevated suicide risk are linked to anxiety in the elderly.
- Specific risk factors and symptom variations in older adults require tailored assessment and treatment approaches.
Conclusions:
- Anxiety in older adults, though less common, presents unique challenges and serious health consequences.
- Effective assessment and treatment strategies are essential for improving the well-being of older adults with anxiety disorders.
- Further research and clinical attention are needed to address the under-recognition and undertreatment of anxiety in this demographic.
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