Emotional Problems of Aging Patients

Abstract

Functional and organic emotional disorders will continue to increase among the elderly as this segment of the population grows. The family physician can play an important role in minimizing these emotional problems through his strategic relationship with the patient. He can encourage his elderly patients to remain active and provide supportive therapy as well as prescribe psycho-pharmacologic drugs and treat organic illness. He can also help the patients' families and the community to understand the special needs of their aged.