Pharmacotherapy of Mental Disorders of Old Age

Abstract

The three major mental disorders of old age are the three “D’s”: depression, dementia, and delirium. While present-day treatment of depression leaves much to be desired, one does not feel powerless to treat the depressed elderly patient unless they are overwhelmed by serious illnesses or social disasters. Delirium, if recognized, can also be managed successfully. Often it is self-limited, even without specific treatment. It is dementia which remains the crucial challenge.