Abstract
BACKGROUND: Specialist services, such as geriatric psychiatric clinics, aim to provide a multi-disciplinary and person-centred approach. There is not enough information available about the number and type of such clinics in India. In this descriptive article, we aim to detail the services provided and the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics of patients who have attended a geriatric psychiatry outpatient clinic in southern India. METHODS: A specific data sheet was used to record the socio-demographic and clinical details of patients attending the weekly geriatric psychiatry outpatient clinic at the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Kozhikode. The clinic uses comprehensive proformas and assessment tools as appropriate. The Short Assessment of Patient Satisfaction scale was used to assess satisfaction with the services. RESULT: Between August 2023 and March 2024, 80 patients attended the geriatric psychiatry outpatient clinic. Men and women were equal in numbers (40, 50%). The mean age of the attendees was 68.91 (SD = 6.87). Sixty-four (80%) patients had co-morbid medical disorders. The most common psychiatric diagnosis was dementia and adjustment disorder (14; 17.5%). Eight (10%) patients each had depression and anxiety disorders. Regarding treatment, 48 (60%) were prescribed psychotropic medications: 21 (26.3%) were on antipsychotics, 37 (46.3%) were on antidepressants, and 14 (17.5%) were on benzodiazepines. Most patients were 'very satisfied' with the service, 47 (58.8%) scoring 27 or 28 on SAPS, where the maximum score is 28. CONCLUSIONS: A multi-disciplinary team ensures effective, holistic geriatric psychiatric care. High patient satisfaction highlights the importance of structured, person-centred approaches in mental health services for older adults.