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Bipolar Disorder Hospitalization in Older Adults: A Nationwide Retrospective Study
Daniela Soberano1, Ana Rita Ferreira1,2, Alberto Freitas3
1Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto (FMUP), Porto, Portugal.
International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry
|April 30, 2026
Summary
Bipolar disorder hospitalizations in older adults show a significant medical burden, with comorbidities impacting outcomes. Early screening and multidisciplinary care are crucial for improved management and reduced hospitalizations.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Public Health
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Bipolar disorder (BD) in older adults presents significant challenges, including medical comorbidities and high hospitalization rates.
- Nationwide data on BD hospitalizations in the elderly population are limited, necessitating further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare hospitalization trends, patient characteristics, and comorbidity impact in older versus younger adults with bipolar disorder in Portugal.
- To analyze the burden of comorbidities on hospitalization outcomes for older adults with BD.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective observational study using Portuguese administrative data (2008-2015).
- Analysis of hospitalization episodes for patients aged ≥ 60 years with a primary BD diagnosis.
- Inclusion of variables such as demographics, comorbidities (Charlson Comorbidity Index), length of stay, mortality, charges, and readmissions.
Main Results:
- Older adults accounted for 22.0% of BD hospitalizations, with a rate of 23.4 per 100,000 inhabitants.
- Median length of stay was 18.0 days, significantly longer than in younger adults; 52.4% experienced readmission.
- Comorbidities were present in 23.0% of hospitalizations, with diabetes and dementia being most prevalent.
Conclusions:
- Bipolar disorder hospitalizations in older adults impose a substantial medical burden, with comorbidities significantly affecting outcomes.
- Effective management requires early screening, multidisciplinary care, and targeted interventions to reduce hospitalizations.
- Further research is essential to explore long-term outcomes and outpatient care strategies for this demographic.
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