Cognitive impairment and loss of functionality are key characteristics of dementia and also highly prevalent among patients with serious mental illness. Our study reports on the prevalence of dementia and the relationship between cognitive decline, behavioral and social functioning disturbances, lifestyle/ physical health parameters and the pharmaceutical approaches, in an elderly population of the psychiatric hospital of Attica.

103 patients, aged 55 years or more, with diagnosis of Schizophrenia/other psychotic disorders, Mood disorders, and mental disorders due to a general medical condition (DSM-IV-TR) participated. Dementia was also defined according to DSM-IV-TR. Data collection was through their medical records and scales (Mini Mental State Examination, Clock Drawing Test, Global Deterioration Scale, Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living, Neuropsychiatric Inventory). All variables were statistically analyzed using the SPSS.

Of the sample of 103 participants, 35.9% men, 64.1% women (mean age of 71), 60.2% had Schizophrenia, 7.8% Mood disorder, 32% Mental disorders due to a general medical condition. Dementia was diagnosed in 42 patients. 43,7% had severe daily skills dysfunction. Only 12,6% had no concomitant physical illness. Although they all had cognitive impairment, only 1/3 were treated with cognitive enhancers.

Long term mental disorder and long term hospitalization lead to severe deterioration of both cognitive function and daily skills abilities. Along with early screening for dementia, psychogeriatric patients need specific therapeutic approaches, promotion of favourable physical profile and amelioration of the consequences of the long term medication in their fragile health.