Treatment of anxiety disorders in the elderly: Issues and strategies

Clinical practice for the treatment of anxiety disorders in the elderly in general lacks empirical validation and hence is somewhat inconsistent. Exte nsive clinical experience, along with the knowledge gleaned from studies wi th a younger population, has led to the development of the following treatm ent approach. A thorough diagnostic assessment, crucial in planning subsequ ent treatment, is discussed first along with more general clinical issues. Next, a detailed review of current pharmacologic and psychologic treatments far each of the diagnostic categories of anxiety is described for applicat ion to the older patient. Definitive studies regarding the best treatments for anxiety disorders in the elderly are lacking, and further investigation of this area is emphasized. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights rese rved.