THE FUTURE OF GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY

The author first reviews some of the main forces and historical developments that have shaped the young specialty of geriatric psychiatry. Emphasis is placed on the integrative and collaborative nature of the psychiatry of old age. This includes its relationship with the parent field of psychiatry, geriatric medicine and the broader field of gerontology. An outline of the future for the field is presented which highlights the need for academic credibility and responsiveness to service delivery issues. Because future trends in mental health delivery are likely to continue to give priority to the severely mentally ill and to emphasize cost-effectiveness, geriatric psychiatrists are well poised to meet the challenges of the coming generation. However, a strong future depends ultimately on the ability of the field to recruit bright young psychiatrists who bring inquisitiveness, enthusiasm and a social commitment to a vulnerable elderly population.