Anxiety disorders in people over 65

Isolated anxiety disorders, including agoraphobia are unusual in people over 65. When they occur, they are usually associated with a depressive illness.

Agoraphobia may, however, sometimes occur following an acute physical illness, despite a good recovery from the underlying physical condition.

Treatment is similar to that for a younger age group, with some minor differences. For example, as many people with anxiety states have a co-existing depressive illness, the use of sedative antidepressants may be useful.