Description
Older Age Bipolar Disorder (OABD) refers to individuals aged 50 and over with bipolar disorder (BD). By 2030, it is projected that 50% of BD patients will be in this age group. The longevity gap in BD is influenced by both unnatural and natural causes, with suicide, accidents, and endocrine and metabolic diseases being the primary contributors to potential years of life lost. Despite the increasing prevalence of OABD, research has been limited, hindering the development of evidence-based guidelines tailored to their specific needs.OABD patients accumulate physical comorbidities more rapidly than the general population, partly due to baseline differences in psychosocial, lifestyle, and health behavior factors. The Global Aging & Geriatric Experiments in Bipolar Disorder (GAGE-BD) project revealed that OABD patients exhibit more physical morbidities compared to matched controls, with women bearing a significantly higher health burden. Additionally, lower functioning in OABD was linked to higher depressive and manic symptoms, rather than the elevated somatic burden observed. These findings underscore the urgent need for integrated care approaches in BD.
Cognitive impairment in OABD is particularly pronounced in the domains of verbal learning and delayed memory, occurring more frequently than in major depression or healthy controls. The severity of BD and medication use are key determinants of cognitive dysfunction. Follow-up studies have identified three cognitive trajectory classes: normal aging, selective impairment, and a progressive course leading to dementia.
Aging is generally associated with declines in cognitive functioning and physical health. For individuals with BD, these somatic and cognitive comorbidities further impede daily functioning and limit treatment options. It remains unclear whether these comorbidities are intrinsic to BD or a consequence of lifestyle choices and medication. Future follow-up studies comparing health peers or BD patients not on maintenance medications are essential to provide new insights.
| Period | 23 Sept 2024 |
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| Degree of Recognition | International |