Prevalence and correlates of obsessive-compulsive disorder among older adults living in the community.

The purpose of this study was to determine OCD prevalence among older adults living in the community and to examine its correlates. Data were drawn from a large population survey using a representative sample of older adults aged 65 years and over (N=2798). The 12-month prevalence rate of OCD was 1.5%. Results showed that older adults with OCD were more likely to be men compared to those having another anxiety disorder or a mood disorder. They were also more afflicted with difficulties in social functioning than respondents presenting another anxiety disorder. In spite of social disabilities, respondents with OCD had the lowest rate of health services use among those reporting anxiety or mood disorders. It is suggested that older adults with OCD did not feel the need to seek treatment because they perceived their physical and mental health more positively than others and because they were surrounded by supportive peers.