Common psychological disorders among the elderly

The common psychological disorders among the elderly mainly include Alzheimer's disease, geriatric depression, geriatric anxiety, geriatric hypochondria, and geriatric sleep disorders. These diseases may be related to factors such as physiological decline, changes in social environment, and chronic disease troubles. It is recommended that family members pay attention to the mental health of the elderly and seek medical attention and screening in a timely manner.

1. Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease is a common neurodegenerative disease in the elderly, mainly characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline. The onset may be related to the deposition of beta amyloid protein and abnormal phosphorylation of tau protein. In the early stages, it may manifest as recent memory forgetting, and in the later stages, there may be orientation disorders and personality changes. Treatment can follow the doctor's advice to use drugs such as donepezil hydrochloride tablets, cabaret tartrate capsules, and memantine hydrochloride tablets, combined with cognitive training and nutritional support.

2. Elderly depression

Elderly depression is commonly characterized by sustained low mood, decreased interest, and may be accompanied by decreased appetite and sleep disorders. The pathogenesis involves an imbalance of neurotransmitters such as serotonin in the brain, which is associated with life events such as retirement and widowhood. Treatment can include antidepressants such as sertraline hydrochloride tablets and escitalopram oxalate tablets, combined with psychological counseling and social support, and attention should be paid to preventing suicide risk.

3. Elderly anxiety disorder

Elderly anxiety disorder is characterized by excessive worry and tension, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations and sweating. It may be related to abnormal function of the gamma aminobutyric acid system in the brain, induced by economic pressure, health problems, etc. Treatment can use anti anxiety drugs such as lorazepam tablets and buspirone tablets, combined with relaxation training and regular sleep patterns.

4. Senile hypochondria

Senile hypochondria is characterized by excessive attention to physical symptoms and disease fear, repeated medical examination but no clear pathological basis. May be related to personality traits and cognitive biases. Treatment should avoid excessive medical examination, and low-dose olanzapine tablets can be used in conjunction with cognitive-behavioral therapy to establish good doctor-patient communication.

5. Elderly sleep disorders

Elderly sleep disorders include symptoms such as difficulty falling asleep and early awakening, which may be related to reduced melatonin secretion. Treatment should first eliminate the influence of physical diseases, and short-term use of zolpidem tablets or zopiclone tablets can be used in conjunction with sleep hygiene education. Maintain a regular daily routine and avoid oversleeping during the day.

It is recommended that family members create a warm family environment for the elderly, maintain moderate social activities, and undergo regular health check ups. Pay attention to supplementing vitamin B and omega-3 fatty acids in diet, and engage in moderate Tai Chi exercises and exercises. When experiencing emotional or cognitive abnormalities, it is important to seek medical attention promptly and avoid self administering sedatives. Communities can organize interest groups and other activities to help elderly people maintain their social functioning, and medical institutions should conduct psychological screening for the elderly.