Resumen

O’HIGGINS, Marcelo et al. Characterization of Mental Disorders in Older Adults Attended at a University Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study. Mem. Inst. Investig. Cienc. Salud [online]. 2025, vol.23, n.1, e23142501.  Epub 28-Feb-2025. ISSN 1812-9528.  https://doi.org/10.18004/mem.iics/1812-9528/2025.e23142501.

This cross-sectional study characterized the diagnoses of mental disorders in older adults who attended the Department of Psychiatry at a university hospital in Paraguay between February 2021 and December 2023. A total of 1,033 individuals aged 65 years or older with psychiatric diagnoses were included. The most frequent diagnoses were depressive episodes, generalized anxiety disorder, and dementia. The majority of patients were women, which aligns with existing literature linking female longevity to a higher prevalence of mental disorders in this age group. Significant differences were observed based on area of residence: mood and anxiety disorders were more common in urban areas, while neurocognitive and psychotic disorders predominated in rural settings. None of the participants had health insurance, highlighting their vulnerability within a fragmented healthcare system. Most patients came from the Central Department, likely due to better access to medical care in urban zones. The most common reasons for consultation included routine check-ups, follow-ups, referrals, insomnia, and anxiety, indicating a high demand for continuous mental health care. This study provides relevant evidence on the epidemiology of mental disorders among older adults in Paraguay, emphasizing the need to tailor mental health interventions to the specific needs of this population, considering gender, age, and urban-rural context. The findings underscore the urgent need for more inclusive and accessible public mental health policies, particularly for older adults without health coverage who face multiple barriers to accessing specialized services.

Palabras clave : Mental disorders; older adults; mental health; epidemiology; Paraguay..

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