Year: 1989 Source: Washington, D.C.: American Psychiatric Press, Inc., 1989. p.263-284 SIEC No: 19911117

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)