A Retrospective Study Of Sociodemographic Profile And Psychiatric Morbidity In Geriatric Patients Attending Psychiatric Department In A Tertiary Care Hospital In A Sub Urban Population

Abstract

Globally there is an increase in elderly population. Psychiatric morbidity is also increasing in elderly owing to increased longevity and changing social circumstances.A retrospective study of sociodemographic profile and psychiatric morbidity in geriatric patients attending psychiatric department in a tertiary care hospital in a sub urban population. Mini Mental Status Examination was used to screen for dementia.Psychiatric disorders were more prevalent in individuals aged > 80 years(72%). Predominant psychiatric diagnosis were depression, substance use , substance use with depression , dementia, .Presence of dementia was associated with increased age.Depression was associated with Lowincome, rural background, unemployment, presence of physical illness.Dementia was associated with physical illness and sensory deficit.The study highlights the importance of delivery of structured care facilities in elderly population.