Assessment and Psychological Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in Older Adults

Abstract

Knowledge regarding the assessment and treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder in older adults continues to be limited in both psychological research and practice. This article provides a summary of this literature. In particular, the psychometric properties of several posttraumatic stress disorder assessment measures in their use with older individuals are reviewed. Although the evidence base on effective treatments for posttraumatic stress disorder in older adults is virtually nonexistent, this article highlights the innovative clinical endeavors that have been conducted in this regard. Explicit suggestions for best practices are made.