Some mental health problems, such as dementia, are more common in old age. Other psychiatric disorders, such as depression, have different presentation and treatment approaches, compared to the younger adult.

Psychiatry of the elderly is a special branch of psychiatry that deals with these conditions. It is also sometimes referred to as Psychogeriatrics, Geriatric Psychiatry or Old Age Psychiatry.

The more common psychiatric syndromes of old age include the dementias, mood and anxiety disorders and late-onset psychosis. In addition, the field of psychogeriatrics also manages the elderly who have developed chronic mental illness at a younger age.

Many of these neuropsychiatric conditions can be treated effectively, although some are progressive and chronic. Early evaluation and proper intervention can result in a better treatment outcome and improved quality of life.