Anxiety Disorders in Later Life
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 8, 2025

Social Isolation Model: A Noninvasive Rodent Model of Stress and Anxiety
Published on: November 11, 2022
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.
Abstract:
Contrary to ageist stereotypes, anxiety disorders are less common in older compared with younger adults. However, anxiety is often under-recognized and undertreated in this population. Anxiety disorders affect around 1 in 10 older adults, are unremitting, and are associated with a range of negative outcomes, including increased risk of depression, cognitive and functional decline, physical health problems, increased healthcare use, and suicide. This article summarizes the epidemiology and risk factors of anxiety in later life, explores variations in symptom presentation compared with younger adults, and outlines recommendations for assessment and treatment.
Related Concept Videos
Anxiety: Overview
Individuals with anxiety often experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms, including sweating, trembling, tachycardia, and disturbances in sleep patterns. These symptoms vary in intensity and frequency but are generally disruptive and distressing.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Stress and Mental Health
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Panic Disorder
Social Anxiety Disorder
Cognitive Development During Adulthood

