Understanding Psychosis in Older Adults: Prevalence, Assessment, and Treatment Strategies-View Presentation

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Video Summary

The video is an introduction and a comprehensive discussion on geriatric psychiatry, focusing particularly on psychotic disorders in older adults. Dr. Vishal Madan opens the session by explaining the purpose of the American Psychiatric Association's first Virtual Immersive Series, designed to offer clinicians a detailed and immersive educational experience on specific psychiatric topics, without waiting for annual meetings. The course targets clinicians seeking advanced knowledge in treating common psychiatric disorders in older adults. Dr. Rajesh Thampy, an experienced expert in geriatric psychiatry, is introduced as the main speaker. He has a notable background and multiple awards to his credit, along with over 200 publications.<br /><br />Dr. Thampy discusses various aspects of psychotic disorders in older adults, emphasizing how the presentation and etiology differ significantly from younger populations. He highlights that secondary causes, such as medications, medical conditions, or substance abuse, are prevalent in late-life psychosis. He also breaks down the prevalence and characteristics of psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia and mood disorders with psychosis, in this age group, noting that women are more commonly affected than men.<br /><br />Treatment strategies are outlined, emphasizing the use of atypical antipsychotics and considering risk factors like comorbid medical conditions. Dr. Thampy underscores the importance of individualized care and a thorough diagnosis process, including collateral history, cognitive assessment, lab work, and potential neuroimaging. Finally, psychosocial interventions and the potential use of ECT are discussed as treatment options.

Keywords

geriatric psychiatry

psychotic disorders

older adults

American Psychiatric Association

Virtual Immersive Series

Dr. Vishal Madan

Dr. Rajesh Thampy

atypical antipsychotics

late-life psychosis

individualized care