Citation

Monfort JC. Rev. Prat. 1994; 44(11): 1426-1430.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1994, J B Bailliere et Fils)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

7939206

Abstract

Aggressivity in the elderly subject is often attributed to a personality that could be termed "difficult". This diagnosis risks over-looking required pharmacological therapy, which can ultimately lead to abrupt institution of emergency treatment, in the absence of previous diagnostic steps, of a high-dose sedative that can result in confusion and prolonged decubitus. Our experience with elderly persons who display aggressivity favors the hypothesis of a mood disorder, an anxiety-depressional state of hostility. Using an anti-depressant, sedative or not, as a therapeutic test has the interest of provoking a high response. Aggressive behaviour disappears or is better tolerated by the patient's family. Suicide can be considered as a form of aggressivity turned against oneself, and the second interest of antidepression treatment is the decreased risk of suicide.

Language: fr

Keywords

Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Aggression; Female; Humans; Male; Time Factors; Tranquilizing Agents