Perioperative psychiatric considerations in the elderly.

This article deals with common issues encountered in elderly persons who are medically ill. Agitation and delirium, including alcohol withdrawal syndrome, are frequently encountered problems, and useful intervention strategies are presented. Depression in this population is discussed, and a brief review of the use of antidepressants is given. Finally, the approach to and management of anxiety, with special focus on the intensive care unit setting, is summarized. Principles of pharmacotherapy in the elderly are reviewed.