Psychiatric disorders among the homeless: A comparison of older and younger groups

Author(s): North, C. S., Smith, E. M.

Journal/Book: Gerontologist. 1997; 37: 1275 K Street NW, Suite 350, Washington, DC 20005-4006. Gerontological Society Amer. 61-66.

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to identify differences between older and younger homeless subgroups. Nine hundred homeless persons were interviewed using the National Institute of Mental Health Diagnostic Interview Schedule, and DSM-III-R diagnoses were made. Results showed that 79 (13%) of the 600 men and 10 (3%) of the 300 women were in the older (age greater than or equal to 50 years) group. Compared with their younger counterparts, older subjects were more likely to be male and white, to report tower incomes and poorer health, and to meet criteria for lifetime alcohol-use disorder. Fewer older than younger subjects met criteria for lifetime drug use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. These findings suggest that older and younger individuals have different vulnerabilities to homelessness.

Note: Article DeMallie DA, 3700 Vaca Valley Pkwy, Vacaville,CA 95688 USA

Keyword(s): homelessness; aging; substance use disorder; SEVERE MENTAL-DISORDERS; LOS-ANGELES; INNER MELBOURNE; DRUG-ABUSE; WOMEN; FAMILIES; HEALTH; ADULTS; CITY; PREVALENCE

Zurück | Weiter