Abstract
Abstract:

Background: The geriatric population in Nigeria is increasing due to advancements in healthcare services, leading to greater longevity. However, there is a scarcity of studies focusing on the patterns of psychiatric illnesses among the elderly in this context. Given the changing demographics, more information is essential.

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

Methods: A retrospective case note review was conducted for all patients treated at the Geriatric Clinic from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2014. Data collected 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. Approximately 42.6% of the patients identified as Bini ethnicity. More than half (57.5%) were married, while about a third (36.3%) were widowed. Children were the primary caregivers for 78.2% of the patients. The most common psychiatric illnesses were depression (41%), dementia (27%), and schizophrenia (15%). A significant proportion (61.8%) attended the clinic only once or twice. Nearly a third (28%) had comorbid medical conditions, with hypertension being the most common diagnosis. About half (52%) were prescribed only one psychotropic medication.

Conclusion: This study found that depression was the most common diagnosis among the elderly, followed by dementia. Many patients also had comorbid medical conditions, such as hypertension and diabetes. Enhancing the quality of geriatric services, while addressing the prevalent psychiatric and medical disorders in this age group, is crucial for providing adequate 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