Psychiatric Consequences of Brain Disease in the Elderly: A Focus on Management

Alzheimer's disease, stroke and Parkinson's disease are the most prevalent brain diseases in the elderly. The psychiatric and behavioural consequences of these and other brain disorders contribute greatly to the decline in function of these patients, often leading to greater suffering and a decreased quality of life, placement in institutions and increased stress on the family and other caregivers. The authors in this book discuss the psychiatric consequences of brain disease in the elderly with a particular focus on the management of these disorders. We have tried to keep the content of this book clinically relevant throughout by using a series of case examples and by emphasizing the various treatment strategies and forms of management available to the health care professional. In attempting to understand these disorders, it is important to place equal emphasis on biological, psychological and social factors. Because of the complexity and chronicity of these conditions, multidisciplinary intervention is crucial. We believe that this book will be helpful to all those working with the elderly, whether in the community or in the institution. This includes physicians, nurses, social workers, occupational therapists, psychologists and all those working with this patient population.