Clinical and Experimental Psychology

Lucky Connections The Effects of A Geriatrician Liaison Service on Mental Health Wards for The Elderly

Dariush Zahedi^{* *}Correspondence: Dariush Zahedi, Cairo University, 1 Gamaa Street, Giza, Postal Code: 12613, Egypt, Email:

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Introduction

Our study conducted a retrospective cohort evaluation to assess the effects of introducing a liaison geriatrician, using routinely collected data. We also investigated the acceptability of this service among medical staff through semi-structured interviews.

Our initiative involved regular sessions by consultant community geriatricians in older adults' psychiatric wards, utilizing both video conferencing and face-to-face interactions. Although there was no significant decrease in emergency transfers, we observed a notable reduction in length of stay following the introduction of a liaison geriatrician. Additionally, there was a significant increase in geriatrician consultations and a decrease in referrals to other specialties. However, there was no change observed in discharge prescriptions or discharge destinations. Notably, geriatricians enhanced the confidence of psychiatrists at all levels in managing physical health issues, especially chronic conditions.

The role of liaison geriatrician services has become increasingly significant in the realm of mental health care for older adults, profoundly impacting treatment and support within psychiatric wards. The article "Auspicious Liaisons: The Impact of a Liaison Geriatrician Service on Older Adults' Psychiatric Wards" provides a thorough analysis of how these specialists improve well-being and care outcomes. By examining case studies, empirical data, and qualitative assessments, the review highlights the diverse benefits of integrating geriatric expertise in psychiatric settings. Emphasizing the bridging of physical and mental health domains, the article underscores how liaison geriatricians play a crucial role in addressing complex medical, cognitive, and emotional needs. This approach promotes a holistic and personalized approach to geriatric psychiatric care, aiming for integrated and patient-centered healthcare paradigms.

In the field of geriatric psychiatry, liaison geriatrician services represent a pivotal advancement in meeting the distinctive healthcare needs of older adults in psychiatric wards. This introductory overview sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of the impact and implications of such services, emphasizing the nuanced role of liaison geriatricians in filling critical gaps in care and promoting a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between physical and mental health in elderly populations. Through detailed examination of the specific challenges in geriatric psychiatric care, this article lays the groundwork for understanding the manifold benefits and transformative outcomes associated with integrating liaison geriatrician services into psychiatric settings.

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In geriatric psychiatry, identifying unfulfilled requirements

In the field of geriatric psychiatry, there is a growing acknowledgment of the significant and often unmet healthcare needs among older adults residing in psychiatric wards. This recognition underscores the crucial role of implementing specialized intervention strategies tailored to this particular demographic. The complexity of geriatric mental health necessitates a thorough exploration of the challenges and vulnerabilities unique to older adults in these settings.

Aging is intricately intertwined with psychiatric conditions, presenting a spectrum of complexities that demand nuanced and personalized care approaches. From cognitive decline to mood disorders and the exacerbation of chronic illnesses, older psychiatric patients require comprehensive and integrated healthcare solutions. This section delves into the multifaceted landscape of geriatric mental health, aiming to shed light on these intricacies.

Liaison geriatrician services have emerged as a pivotal component in bridging this healthcare gap. These specialized services play a transformative role in enhancing the coordination and management of physical, mental, and emotional health aspects for older adults in psychiatric wards. By integrating geriatric expertise into psychiatric practice, these services advocate for a holistic approach that respects the unique healthcare challenges faced by older psychiatric patients.

Thus, this section lays the groundwork for a detailed exploration of how liaison geriatrician services contribute not only to addressing immediate healthcare deficiencies but also to fostering improved overall well-being and quality of life for older adults in psychiatric care. It underscores the essential role of integrating specialized geriatric care to ensure comprehensive and effective healthcare solutions tailored to the specific needs of older psychiatric patients.

Conclusion and Implication

A liaison geriatrician service leads to shorter hospital stays and improved continuity of care, though it does not affect emergency transfers. This intervention offers significant benefits to clinicians, boosting their confidence in handling complex cases and enhancing their training. The article provides a comprehensive overview of how specialized geriatric expertise transforms care, highlighting these services' pivotal role in bridging the gap between physical and mental health. This fosters a more integrated and holistic approach to geriatric psychiatric care.

Evidence-based advocacy, this article champions collaborative, patientcentered care models that promote the holistic well-being of elderly individuals navigating complex psychiatric challenges.