Geriatric Psychiatrists

Geriatric psychiatrists are physicians who attend to elderly patients' mental, emotional, and behavioral symptoms. They treat older patients who may suffer from dementia or depression or have other mental illnesses, and employ different methods to help them function better in their daily lives. For example, geriatric psychiatrists may prescribe medicine, including tranquilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants, to help their patients feel better. The medication may also be combined with another therapeutic approach, such as talk therapy. In addition, geriatric psychiatrists may assist nursing home staff and other caregivers in developing individualized treatment programs and approaches designed to bring improvement to patients.

Salary Range

$50,000 to $100,000+

Minimum Education Level

Medical Degree

Certification/License

Required

Outlook

Much Faster than the Average

Personality Traits

Helpful

Problem-Solving

Scientific

Career Ladder

Health Administrator, or College Professor, or Medical Researcher

Geriatric Psychiatrist

Medical Resident