Which disorder is most commonly diagnosed for individuals aged 65 years and older in psychiatric hospitals?

The most commonly diagnosed disorder for individuals aged 65 years and older in psychiatric hospitals is organic disorders, which encompass a range of conditions often characterized by cognitive decline, such as dementia and delirium. As people age, they are more susceptible to changes in their brain health due to various factors like neurodegenerative diseases, vascular issues, and metabolic conditions. These organic disorders often impact cognitive function, behavior, and emotional regulation, making them prevalent in geriatric psychiatric settings.

Organic disorders are distinguished by their physiological basis—unlike functional disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder, which may not have a clear organic origin. Geriatric populations are particularly vulnerable to conditions like Alzheimer's disease and other dementias, which contribute significantly to the psychiatric admissions seen in older adults. Thus, understanding the biological and cognitive aspects of these disorders is essential in managing patients effectively in psychiatric hospitals for this age group.