Geropsychology is a field within psychology devoted to the study of aging and providing clinical services for older adults. Geropsychology appreciates the wide diversity among older adults, the complex ethical issues that can arise in geriatric practice and the importance of interdisciplinary models of care.
Deeper dive
The number of older adults in the U.S. with mental and behavioral health problems is projected to reach approximately 15 million in 2030, according to the American Psychological Association office on aging. Disorders like anxiety and depression adversely affect physical health and ability to function; physical health problems, loss of independence, caring for an ill spouse, or coping with death of a loved one can lead to anxiety or depression.
Depression can seriously impact ability to function, resulting in high rates of disability. The World Health Organization projects that by the year 2020, depression will remain a leading cause of disability, second only to cardiovascular disease. However, diagnosing and treating mental health issues in older adults can be particularly challenging. It can be tough to differentiate between disorders such as dementia, depression, anxiety, delirium, adjustment reactions, medication side effects, or combinations of these problems. The APA says that recognizing and treating mental health problems in older adults can lower health costs by reducing frequency of primary care visits, medical procedures and medication use.
Demand for mental health services is expected to rise as large cohorts of middle-aged individuals — who are more accepting of mental health services than the current generation of older people — move into old age. Researchers estimate that almost two-thirds of older adults with a mental disorder do not receive needed services. This problem is particularly acute in rural and underserved groups, such as those living in poverty and some ethnic and racial groups.