[Aggressivity in the elderly: when and how to treat?].
Aggressivity in the elderly subject is often attributed to a personality that could be termed "difficult". This diagnosis risks over-looking required pharmacological therapy, which can ultimately lead to abrupt institution of emergency treatment, in the absence of previous diagnostic steps, of a high-dose sedative that can result in confusion and prolonged decubitus. Our experience with elderly persons who display aggressivity favors the hypothesis of a mood disorder, an anxiety-depressional state of hostility. Using an anti-depressant, sedative or not, as a therapeutic test has the interest of provoking a high response. Aggressive behaviour disappears or is better tolerated by the patient's family. Suicide can be considered as a form of aggressivity turned against oneself, and the second interest of antidepression treatment is the decreased risk of suicide.
Monfort
J C
JC
Service de psychiatrie du Pr André Manus, hôpital Albert-Chenevier, Créteil.
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000374:Aggression / Q000187:drug effects / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013997:Time Factors; D014149:Tranquilizing Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use
D014149:Tranquilizing Agents
Agressivité du sujet âgé: quand et comment faut-il la traiter?