Later life transitions and changes in psychiatry

Objective: The objective of this study was to discuss some concerns that today’s psychiatrists are likely to experience in the later stages of their careers. Conclusions: When changes associated with ageing begin to make their presence felt, there is a need to come to terms with them. For many psychiatrists this may generate a surprising creativity. Psychiatrists also need to come to terms with a paradigm change that has taken place in psychiatric practice. This paper, one of a series that captures a broad perspective on ageing, was solicited (by the Members Engagement Committee) to specifically capture the psychotherapist’s view of later life transitions.