Geriatric Psychiatry

Our Services

Geriatric Psychiatry (Senior Mental Health)

As people age, they face unique mental health challenges. Geriatric psychiatry specializes in treating seniors (typically 60+), addressing conditions like depression, anxiety, dementia-related issues, and late-life psychosis. Dr. Aftab is attuned to elder concerns: he respects the wisdom of older patients (“ata’un ka izzat” honoring elders) while also recognizing that loneliness or health decline can take a heavy toll on their mood and thinking.

What is geriatric psychiatry? It involves evaluation and treatment of mental health disorders in the elderly. According to Mount Sinai, this includes mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, and dementia. By 2030, an estimated one in six people worldwide will be over 60, so demand is growing. Older adults often have chronic illnesses and life changes (retirement, loss of spouse) that affect mental health. Geriatric psychiatrists use treatments adjusted for age (for example, starting at lower drug doses to avoid side effects) and work closely with families and other doctors.

Step-by-step Treatment Process

Care for seniors is holistic:

Thorough evaluation: Every senior’s care begins with a detailed assessment medical history, cognitive tests (like MoCA or MMSE), and review of medications (some pills can affect mood). Dr. Aftab also evaluates daily functioning (sleep, hygiene, safety). Family members often join these discussions to provide observations.
Diagnosis and care planning: After diagnosing (say, late-life depression or early dementia), he explains the condition clearly. He involves the family in planning, as elder care usually requires support.
Medication management: For seniors, medications are chosen carefully. Antidepressants may be used for depression or anxiety, and new dementia drugs can be tried if appropriate. Doses start low to reduce fall risk or confusion. Dr. Aftab closely monitors for side effects (like dizziness or heart issues).
Therapies and support: Psychotherapy is still beneficial. Though many seniors are skeptical about “talking with a stranger”, Dr. Aftab uses gentle supportive therapy and problem-solving therapy (adjusted for cognitive level). He may also recommend group therapy for seniors or connect them with community activities.
Caregiver education: Family plays a huge role. Dr. Aftab educates relatives on how to manage symptoms (for example, how to soothe an anxious senior at night or set up routines for someone with dementia). He may teach communication techniques to reduce frustration on both sides.

About US

Dr. Aftab’s Approach with Seniors

He is patient and speaks respectfully, often involving elders in decision-making to honor their life experience. He balances hope with realism, focusing on abilities rather than losses. For example, instead of focusing on memory lapses, he might encourage reminiscing about strengths and achievements. He tailors therapy to older adults sessions tend to be shorter and more structured. His office environment is senior-friendly (quiet, easy seating) and he often meets family together to plan care.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is depression normal in old age?

No. It is common but not an inevitable part of aging. Seniors often benefit from treatment. For example, gentle antidepressants and psychotherapy can lift the heavy sadness many older people feel.

My parent hears “voices”. Is that dementia?

Hearing or seeing things (hallucinations) can occur in dementia, but also in severe depression or delirium. Dr. Aftab will evaluate for all causes. Sometimes simple treatments (like checking infections or medications) can resolve these symptoms.

What if my elderly relative refuses help?

This is common. Dr. Aftab may first meet only with the senior to build rapport, or with a trusted family member. He uses gentle persuasion and highlights how treatment can improve sleep or memory.

Are there local support groups for elders?

Yes, Lahore has senior citizen associations and parks where elders meet. Dr. Aftab can provide information on community centers or religious study groups, which WHO notes greatly improve seniors’ well-being.

Can mental illness cause physical symptoms in old age?

Absolutely. Depression can cause aches, fatigue, poor appetite. Anxiety can cause stomach issues or heart palpitations. Dr. Aftab checks physical health to rule out other causes, but he reminds patients that “the heart of the mind” can make us feel bad in our bodies too.

Get Started

Appointment & Contact

Scheduling an appointment with Dr. Naeem Aftab is easy and confidential. Use the contact information below or our online portal (calendar integration coming soon) to secure a session.