Abstract
Abstract:

Background: The geriatric population in Nigeria is increasing due to improvements in healthcare services, resulting in increased longevity. However, relatively few studies have examined the pattern of psychiatric illnesses among the elderly in this environment. With changing demographics, more information is needed.

Objective: This study aimed to (1) examine the sociodemographic and clinical variables of patients treated at the Geriatric Clinic of the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Benin City, and (2) investigate the pattern of psychogeriatric disorders among these patients.

Methods: A retrospective case note review was conducted of all patients treated at the Geriatric Clinic from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2014. Data extracted from case files included biodata, psychiatric diagnoses, the number of prescribed medications, clinic attendance, and comorbid medical conditions.

Results: A total of 650 patients attended the geriatric clinic during the study period. Most (67.5%) were female, with ages ranging from 60 to 109 years (mean age: 69.9 years, SD = 7.96; median age: 69 years). The majority (91.2%) were Christians, and over half (54.9%) were employed. Forty-two percent (42.6%) of the patients were of Bini ethnicity. More than half (57.5%) were married, while about a third (36.3%) were widowed. Children constituted the largest percentage (78.2%) of caregivers. The three most common psychiatric illnesses were depression (41%), dementia (27%), and schizophrenia (15%). A large proportion (61.8%) attended the clinic only once or twice. Almost a third (28%) had comorbid medical illnesses, with hypertension being the most common diagnosis. About half (52%) were prescribed only one psychotropic medication.

Conclusion: This study revealed that depression was the most common diagnosis among the elderly subjects reviewed, followed by dementia. Many patients had comorbid medical conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes. Improving the quality of geriatric services, considering the prevalent psychiatric and medical disorders in this age group, will enhance care to meet the mental and physical health needs of the elderly population.

Keywords: geriatric psychiatry, depression, dementia, Nigeria, comorbidities.

Key words: Keywords: Elderly, common psychiatric illnesses, Psychogeriatric clinic, Nigeria.