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 most 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.