Over 65

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) may occasionally occur for the first time in old age. In addition, OCD frequently persists into old age. Clinical features and severity are similar to younger people with OCD. However, older people are more likely to have obsessions relating to having sinned and compulsions to hand washing relative to younger people. Because depression and OCD commonly coexist, depression is more likely to be recognised in the elderly and treatment of OCD may be inadequate.

Amended June 2008