The Top Doctors Specializing in GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY in VA

Geriatric psychiatry is psychiatry for older adults, aimed at disorders developed later in life such as mood disorders, dementia, substance abuse, or personality disorders.Geriatric psychiatrists have specialized, additional training for assisting older adults, and as a result are able to expertly navigate scenarios unique to older adults. Geriatric psychiatrists are focused on preventing, evaluating, diagnosing, and treating mental and emotional disorders in older adults. The difference between general adult psychiatrists and geriatric professionals is the experience with older adults who have multiple medical issues and take multiple medications. They also have specialized training in geriatric medicine and neurology, and are able to evaluate and treat psychiatric symptoms and behaviors in Alzheimer’s disease. With this knowledge and expertise, they are able to educate and provide resources to patients and their families, and today have even moved into a role of helping caregivers avoid burnout and depression. The three most common diagnoses in geriatric psychiatry are delirium, dementia, and depression. Other common late-life psychiatric syndromes and mental health conditions include: Anxiety disorders, Psychoses, Alcohol and substance abuse, Personality disorders, and Sleep disturbances. After completing four years of medical school, candidates undergo a four-year residency in psychiatry, followed by a one-year fellowship in geriatric psychiatry, which makes them eligible for state licensure, as well as board certification through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Residencies vary, but a typical residency might involve researching Alzheimer's disease, with the candidate studying pharmacology, neuropathology, molecular biology and genetics. Students may wish to consider taking the certification examination for general psychiatry given by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). Once this certification is completed, students can then take the certification exam for the subspecialty of geriatric psychiatry. Although not required, these forms of certification may be helpful in obtaining employment and attracting potential patients.