Geriatric psychiatry in Austria: Current status and new perspectives

Abstract

In Austria, geriatric psychiatry is referred to as geriatric psychiatry or psychiatry of old age. It is recognized as a subspecialty of psychiatry focusing on the study, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders in humans with old age. The age limits vary between 60 and 65 years. In this review, we report the current status of geriatric psychiatry based on data sources published by government agencies or public health bodies, as well as telephone surveys of respective institutions or specific questionnaires. Overall, in Austria there is only one department for geriatric psychiatry. Several psychogeriatric units are located in Departments of Psychiatry. So far, no board certification has been established for geriatric psychiatry. An education on geriatrics for physicians in internal medicine, neurology, physical medicine and general rehabilitation or psychiatrist also includes courses for geriatric psychiatry. Patients suffering from various types of dementia constitute the largest group of psychogeriatric patients. Patients with dementia, however, are also treated by neurologists or general practitioners. To further promote education, medical trainings or research in the field of geriatric psychiatric, Austria should strive for close European co-operations, especially with countries with a comparable health system.