![]() ![]() ![]() Although many older adults do not meet full criteria for a PTSD diagnosis, they may still exhibit some symptoms.The lifetime prevalence of PTSD in the general adult population is about 8% (6), with point estimates ranging from 2% to 17% among US military samples (7).The prevalence of current PTSD in adults over 60 ranges from 1.5% to 4%, as reported in several community studies (5).It is, therefore, possible that current estimates may under-represent the prevalence of PTSD in older adults (4). Prevalence of PTSD in older adultsĪlthough the literature on PTSD in older adults is growing, there is still a dearth of studies examining trauma among geriatric populations. This research attributed the gender differential to combat exposure (3). Based on a community sample of older adults, about 70% of older men reported lifetime exposure to trauma older women reported a lower rate, around 41% (3). Gender differences exist in regard to trauma exposure. In the general population, approximately 70% to 90% of adults aged 65 and up have been exposed to at least one potentially traumatic event during their lifetime (2). Prevalence of Trauma Exposure in Older Adults At the same time, adaptation and resilience developed over a lifetime can provide a rich reservoir of coping resources upon which to draw. ![]() To manage posttraumatic stress symptoms in early and mid-life, individuals may engage in avoidance-based coping strategies (such as drinking alcohol or over-committing oneself to work) that are less available or effective as they get older.Such stressors include retirement, increased health problems, decreased sensory abilities, reduced income, loss of loved ones, decreased social support, cognitive impairment, and other stressors and causes of functional decline (1). Role changes and functional losses may make coping with memories of earlier trauma more challenging for the older adult.Both chronological age (cohort effects of birth-year groupings) and developmental processes of aging impact the experience of PTSD. There are a number of reasons why symptoms of PTSD can increase with age. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Aging Prevalence of Trauma Exposure in Older Adults Differences in PTSD between Older and Younger Adults Other Resources on Aging and PTSD References Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Aging VA Software Documentation Library (VDL).Clinical Trainees (Academic Affiliations).War Related Illness & Injury Study Center. ![]()
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