Post-traumatic stress disorder and the elderly combat veteran

Area of Science:

• Geriatric medicine
• Psychiatry
• Military health

Background:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is underdiagnosed in World War II and Korean War veterans.
• Lifelong coping mechanisms and clinical inattention contribute to underdiagnosis.
• Older veterans in healthcare settings may experience resurfacing PTSD symptoms due to psychological, developmental, and situational factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the underdiagnosis of PTSD in older veterans.
• To identify factors contributing to the resurfacing of PTSD symptoms in this population.
• To underscore the role of healthcare nurses in identifying and managing PTSD in elderly veterans.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical observations and patient histories.
• Analysis of psychological, developmental, and situational factors.
• Assessment of the role of healthcare professionals in veteran mental health.

Main Results:

• PTSD remains under-recognized in WWII and Korean era veterans.
• Older veterans face unique challenges with PTSD symptom manifestation in healthcare settings.
• Nurses are pivotal in identifying at-risk veterans and facilitating mental health referrals.

Conclusions:

• Early identification and intervention are crucial for veterans experiencing PTSD.
• Healthcare settings provide opportunities for nurses to support veterans with PTSD.
• Addressing PTSD in aging veterans requires a multi-faceted approach involving clinical awareness and targeted support.