Outcomes for adults over the age of 65 compared to adults under age 65 who are assessed for psychiatric treatment during an acute crisis: Challenges to healthy communities

Individuals experiencing an emergency mental health crisis (e.g., psychosis) are typically assessed to determine needed treatment. Involuntary or voluntary inpatient psychiatric hospitalization or outpatient treatments are options for those in crisis depending upon the availability of services and other factors. A point-in-time survey of all face-to-face crisis evaluations performed by trained clinicians in a Southern state was conducted. Results indicate that there are a number of significant differences between individuals age 65 and over compared to younger adults. This study reports on characteristics of older adults compared to younger adults. Among 215 adults older than age 65, 30% were over the age of 80. Living arrangements included 27% who lived alone, 40% with family, 23 % with support, 3% with non-family others, 1% homeless and the rest other options. Higher rates of mental illness at presentation compared to substance abuse disorders were found among those over age 65 compared to those younger than age 65 with only 4% being under the influence of alcohol or other drugs (compared to 31% of those under age 65). Almost half had no current treatment provider. Of the total older sample, 37% were found to be a danger to others, 28% were unable to care for themselves, 21% were a danger to self, and 14% were experiencing distress but not acute symptoms of mental illness. Results will be discussed in terms of the link between healthy communities and healthy mind and bodies.