Recognizing and treating late-life generalized anxiety disorder: distinguishing features and psychosocial treatment

Abstract

Generalized anxiety disorder is a highly prevalent and under-recognized public health problem associated with significant impairment and serious disability. Generalized anxiety disorder is the most common anxiety disorder among adults over the age of 60 years. This article discusses distinguishing features of generalized anxiety disorder, such as disorder-specific worry domains and associated features. The relation of the disorder to normal aging, major depression and health is also discussed. Current psychosocial treatment strategies are outlined, with a particular focus on cognitive behavior therapy.

Keywords::

• aging
• anxiety
• cognitive behavior therapy
• generalized anxiety disorder
• psychosocial treatment