Grief and depression in the aged

Bereavement after recent or earlier losses of loved ones is analyzed in 155 patients older than 60 years. Patients were treated by psychiatrists for endogenous, neurotic, or reactive depression. Bereavement was characterized by depressive syndromes, depressive and anxiety developments, chronification of somatic complaints, induction of endogenous depression, lack of grief or late onset of grief reaction, substance abuse and suicide. Women are more prone to bereavement. Special stressors and characteristic features of bereavement in old age are discussed. The pivotal meaning of interpersonal dependence on lost ones is discussed. Difficulties in the management of bereavement in old people are mentioned.