Epidemiology of psychiatric disorders in elderly compared withyounger adults with learning disabilities
S.A. Cooper
Bok Engelsk 1997
| Utgitt | 1997
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| Omfang | Side 375- 380
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| Opplysninger | Background The literature regarding psychiatric illness among elderlypeople with learning disabilities is limited and conflicting becauseof methodological differences,There have been no recent studiescomparing psychiatric epidemiology between younger and older adultswith learning disabilities, using the same methodology anddefinitions.Method Comprehensive psychiatric examination using a semi-structuredrating scale was undertaken on everyone with learning disabilities,aged 65 years or over (n=134), living in a defined geographical area.Comparison was made with a randomly selected control group of adultswith learning disabilities aged 20-65 years (n=73) drawn from thesame geographical area.Results Elderly people with learning disabilities have a greaterprevalence of psychiatric morbidity than younger controls (68.7 v.47.9%). Rates for depression and anxiety disorders are high, anddementia is common: there are equal rates forschizophrenia/delusional disorders, autism and behaviour disorders inthe two groups.Conclusions The higher psychiatric morbidity among elderly (comparedwith younger) people with learning disabilities has not previouslyreceived adequate recognition. This warrants further investigation byservice planners and clinicians.
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| Emner |
