background Although the number of older people with schizophrenia is increasing and most of them are living in the community there is still a lack of data on their clinical presentation, functional status and need for care. Amongst others, age at onset is considered as one of the factors relevant to outcome. The Amsterdam-based 'soul' study evaluates a cohort of elderly people with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, with special interest in the impact of age at onset.
aims To study age at onset, clinical characteristics and functional status in schizophrenia in old age.
methods In a cross-sectional survey all patients over the age of 60 years receiving psychiatric care and with a primary diagnosis of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder or delusional disorder were identified in the southern part of Amsterdam (catchment area). Diagnosis was confirmed with the mini-Plus. Psychotic symptoms, comorbidity, cognitive functioning, social integration, needs and quality of life were assessed with standardised instruments. Age at onset was ascertained using multiple sources of information.
results 170 persons were eligible in the study period (2006-2008), of whom 120 were expected to participate, probably resulting in a response rate of 70 %.
discussion The first results of this study cohort will be presented.