[Key points for the treatment of the elderly with bipolar disorder].

BACKGROUND: There is a lack of research into the treatment of the elderly with bipolar disorder. The Dutch guidelines for the treatment of older persons with bipolar disorder are based primarily on research relating to younger adults.

AIM: To define key points for the treatment of bipolar disorder in later life.

METHOD: The working group on the elderly of the Dutch Foundation for Bipolar Disorder defined key points in several consensus meetings based on clinical experience and research literature.

RESULTS: Recommendations were drawn up for the treatment of the elderly with bipolar disorder relating to somatic comorbidity, pharmacotherapy, cognitive dysfunctions and psychosocial support.

CONCLUSIONS: In general the Dutch Guidelines for the treatment of Bipolar Disorder are applicable for the elderly, provided the key points are taken into consideration.