MPM1301

Adult psychiatry II ( 8 points, SCA Band 3, 0.167 EFTSL)

Leader: A/Professor D Ames

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: This unit is a continuation of General Adult Psychiatry I and will focus on the psychiatry of old age. Topics include the interaction of ageing and mental health, common cognitive and functional disorders in the elderly, physical health, pharmacology and ageing. Service provisions to the elderly mentally ill will be addressed as will the various service models in Victoria and other Australian states. Lastly, current RANZCP guidelines for advanced training in old age psychiatry will be set out.

Objectives: On completion of this unit, students will be able: 1. to describe the common psychiatric syndromes which affect older people, their presentation, differential diagnosis, assessment, basic management and outcomes; 2. to demonstrate the skills to interview older persons effectively and to assess their mental state with particular reference to cognitive function; 3. to demonstrate the skills necessary to manage the common psychiatric disorders affecting older persons with psychiatric disorders; 4. to discuss the range of services available to assist older people with mental health problems in Australia and the way these services are likely to develop in the future; 5. to describe the experience of ageing as lived in Australia together with the social, societal and personal implications of the ageing process; and 6. to utilise appropriate referral to other specialists and services (both medical and social) for older people.

Assessment: The assessment will be based on attendance and active participation (75%) and a case presentation during one of the sessions (25%)

Contact Hours: Attendance of approximately 3.5 hours per week at lectures/tutorials.

Prerequisites: MPM1202