Geriatric Psychiatry Program

With the increase in our senior population comes the need to better understand how aging affects mental health. As one grows older, conditions like dementia, depression and stroke can disturb the ability to function or cope. As they struggle to comfort their loved one, family members often feel helpless.

Allina Mental Health's Geriatric Psychiatry Program involves families as their loved ones are cared for in these safe settings:

Our geriatric psychiatry care team

Our care team members are qualified to meet the special needs of each patient and family.

• Physicians who specialize in geriatric psychiatry and geriatric medicine lead each hospital's program.
• Ramesh Sairam, MD; and Joseph McRaith, MD, are the lead physicians at United Hospital in St. Paul.
• Nurses have special training and experience to meet each patient's unique needs.
• Occupational and recreational therapists provide therapeutic group activities so that patients can have positive social interaction and spend less time alone.
• Other specialists may provide physical therapy, occupational therapy, dietary and nutrition consultation, and spiritual support.
• A social worker/case manager works with the patient and family members to coordinate the transition back home or to another setting.

Patient criteria and referral

We accept patients who...

• are 65 years and older (Exceptions for those under 65 are made on a case-by-case basis.)
• may threaten the safety of themselves, others or property
• have talked about or tried committing suicide
• behave in a way that interferes with their caregivers' ability to care for them
• have symptoms that are hard to diagnose or treat in a doctor's office or other outpatient setting
• say they do not want help, even though their health and safety may be in danger.

Anyone may refer someone to the Geriatric Psychiatry Program. Patients may be admitted upon acceptance by the attending physician

Related Links

Geriatric psychiatry program: Comprehensive and compassionate care for older adults with mental illness

Mental health inventories

Stroke: Emotional effects

Allina Mental Health's Geriatric Psychiatry Program

United Hospital 333 North Smith Avenue, St. Paul, MN 55102 651-241-8860

Unity Hospital 550 Osborne Road, Fridley, MN 55432 763-236-4464