Differences between elderly voluntary and involuntary admitted psychiatric patients in Greece

Abstract

From the clinical point of view, IAPs presented with delirium and more aggressive behavior, whereas, the VAPs presented with higher rates of mood disorder and suicidality. However, from the medicolegal point of view, our findings lend support to the argument of either setting a limited time frame for involuntary admission in elderly patients, and/or allowing for elderly individuals with acute organic conditions to be treated against their will.

Mental health law in Greece

“…If the psychiatrists establish that these prerequisites for involuntary admission are present, then, after the appropriate forms are completed (which are returned to the public prosecutor), the individual is admitted involuntarily. The public prosecutor then brings the case before a court within 10 days (Douzenis et al , 2013). The individual examined and deemed to be suffering from a psychiatric disorder can appear in that court and argue against involuntary admission, with legal representation.…”