The elderly

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Abstract
Physical illness and disability increase with advancing age and result in an increased burden on primary care and social service resources. Depression in older people has a prevalence similar to other age groups—dementia increases dramatically. Untreated depression causes suffering in patient and carer, and increases attendance at general practice surgeries. Recognition of depression and dementia appears to have improved but management has not. The psychiatric illnesses of older people merit as much intervention as those of younger people; primary care physicians and community care planners must address this issue. The employment of community psychiatric nurses is a possible way forward.
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