Chapter
The Psychiatric Interview of the Geriatric Patient (IN: Geriatric Psychiatry, ed. by E W Busse & D G Blazer)
Blazer D G
This article outlines the elements of a psychiatric interview with an elderly patient. The author describes how to obtain a full history of the patient, including symptoms, present & past episodes of medical & psychiatric disorders, & family history. He also describes the elements of physical & mental status examination & family assessment. He concludes with a description of useful general assessment scales, structured interview schedules, & tips on communicating with older patients. (VM)