Older adults who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid have higher rates of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders than older adults with Medicare only.1 In addition, older adults with schizophrenia are more likely to have co-occurring chronic physical health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia, compared to younger adults with schizophrenia.2 Caring for older adults with schizophrenia requires special attention to how needs and corresponding treatments may change over time, as well as consideration of the impact that chronic physical health conditions, cognitive impairments, and changes to vision and hearing can have on older adults with schizophrenia.3 An individualized treatment approach is key to ensure that this population is supported across their full spectrum of needs.
This document provides practical tips for meeting the needs of dually eligible older adults with schizophrenia. For more information, you can access an accompanying recorded webinar and supporting materials here.
Click here to access the tip sheet
References:
1 Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission. (2015). Chapter 4: Behavioral Health in the Medicaid Program – People, Use, and Expenditures.
2 Desai, A. K. (2010). Schizophrenia in older adults. Current Psychiatry, 9(9), 23-A.
3 Ibid.