Anxiety Disorders
Geriatric Mental Health, NOVA Publications , ss.81-93, 2026
- Yayın Türü: Kitapta Bölüm / Araştırma Kitabı
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Yayınevi: NOVA Publications
- Sayfa Sayıları: ss.81-93
- Anahtar Kelimeler: anxiety, anxiety disorders, anxiety in elderly, geriatric anxiety
- Maltepe Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Anxiety is a common emotion across all age groups and can happen as a normal response to stressful situations. However, when it occurs frequently and intensely, it can negatively affect daily life, social relationships, and overall functioning. Anxiety disorders are quite common in older adults; studies estimate their prevalence to be between 10% and 28%. They are linked to factors such as chronic illness, functional limitations, experiences of loss, social isolation, and low educational attainment. Anxiety often coexists with other medical and psychiatric conditions and can trigger cognitive and behavioral issues in people with cognitive disorders like Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. Diagnostic criteria for older adults include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, specific phobia, and substance- or medication-induced anxiety disorder. Treatment options include pharmacological approaches (such as SSRIs) and psychotherapeutic methods (such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness-based therapies). Social isolation and loss significantly influence anxiety levels, while strong social networks provide a protective effect. Early diagnosis, multidisciplinary interventions, and age-appropriate strategies are key to improving the quality of life for older adults.