The Management and Control of Chronic Physical and Mental Disorders Among Older Adults in the United States

Objectives: Explores significant differences in types of mental health facilities accessed by and services received by elderly in the United States as compared with the total population, how frequently chronic disease management needs are met, and variance by state. Methods: Secondary analysis of the National Mental Health Services Survey (N-MHSS), 2010, of 15,562 facilities in the United States comparing the type of mental health services used by the elderly to the general population. Results: The highest proportion of patients 65 and older in residential treatment was in General Hospitals (17% were elderly) and by the Veteran’s Affairs (VA; 15% were elderly). Discussion: General Hospitals and the VA system need to prepare for the increase in the number of patients with mental illnesses and diminished capacity who are simultaneously being treated for chronic conditions. Coordinated care of patients with these comorbidities is needed.