Social Issues in Geriatric Psychiatry

Abstract

In the past decade significant advances have been made in caring for the emotional problems of the elderly. The evolution of the multidisciplinary team and easier access to health care play important roles. Of seminal importance is the emergence of the psychogeriatrician and the establishment of psychogeriatric units. Treatment of the elderly should extend beyond the confines of the hospital to include families, community agencies and community resources.