Prevalent mental health disorders in the aging population: Issues of comorbidity and functional disability

Depression, anxiety, and substance abuse are not part of the normal aging process; neither is dementia. Yet, many elders have mental health disorders and many of those disorders co-occur with physical illness and disability. Understanding manifestations of prevalent psychopathologies, the complexities of comorbidity, and implications for elders' overall health and quality of life is a serious concern for rehabilitation professionals. This article describes the most prevalent mental health disorders in later life, addresses issues of comorbidity, and discusses relevant treatment approaches. The article concludes by delineating implications for the rehabilitation professions.