SIGNIFICANT LIFE EVENTS AND PTSD IN ELDERLY WORLD-WAR-II VETERANS

The authors reviewed clinic records of 20 WWII veterans referred for evaluation of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Twelve patients qualified for a diagnosis of PTSD, and eight reported several symptoms of PTSD. The mast frequent symptoms were insomnia (80%), nightmares (75%), and irritability (65%). Fourteen veterans had an exacerbation of symptoms occurring with life stresses, including retirement, deteriorating health, or death of a loved one. The authors conclude that elderly WWII combat veterans should be monitored for changes in PTSD symptoms when significant stressful life events occur.