The interface between psychogeriatrics and geriatric medicine is complex, particularly with overlapping presentations between physical and mental illness. Illnesses tend to have an atypical presentation, progress rapidly, impact on social welfare and cause greater morbidity and mortality.

Old age psychiatrists have to develop the ability to diagnose and manage physical illnesses especially in people with depression or dementia who might not be able to offer a good history or where rigorous examination is not feasible. They should be able to interpret results of investigations. They have to distinguish between a physical or psychiatric origin of symptoms and understand the interactions of psychotropic drugs with physical illnesses. They should develop confidence in managing illnesses or liaising with physicians as appropriate.

This module offers fundamental strategies to understand symptoms, take a robust history, perform a structured examination, arrive methodically at a differential diagnosis, interpret investigations and manage common physical illnesses in the elderly.

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