Geriatric Psychiatry
Geriatric Psychiatry & Dementia Care in Coimbatore
Watching a parent become forgetful, confused, or withdrawn is one of life's most difficult experiences. You do not have to navigate it without support.
Recognition
Does This Feel Like You?
If any of the following sound familiar, you are not alone — and you have come to the right place.
You have noticed your parent or loved one becoming increasingly forgetful, confused, or disoriented
They repeat questions or stories, lose track of conversations, or get lost in familiar places
Their personality seems to have changed — more irritable, withdrawn, or anxious than before
As an older adult yourself, you feel persistently low, isolated, or as though you are a burden
Sleep has become deeply disrupted — too little, too much, or never restful
A loved one's behaviour has become difficult to manage at home, and you are unsure what to do
You are caring for an elderly family member and feeling overwhelmed, guilty, or burned out
What We Treat
What We Help With
Older adults face a distinct set of mental health challenges that are often misunderstood or dismissed as simply getting old. Dr. Divya brings specialised expertise in geriatric psychiatry — including advanced training from the International Dementia Academy — to provide accurate assessment and compassionate care for older adults and their families.
Conditions we treat
Understanding
Why This Happens
Ageing brings real physiological changes to the brain — reduced neuroplasticity, shifts in neurotransmitter levels, and increased vulnerability to the effects of chronic illness, isolation, and stress. These are not failures of character or signs of weakness. They are the reality of a brain that has worked hard for many decades.
Conditions like dementia are not a normal part of ageing — they are medical conditions that deserve proper diagnosis and management. Depression in older adults is frequently missed because it presents differently than in younger people. Early identification and appropriate care can significantly improve quality of life for both the older adult and their family.
"Growing older does not mean accepting sadness or confusion as inevitable. The mind deserves to be taken seriously at every stage of life."
— Dr. Divya C.R., MD Psychiatry
Our Approach
How We Help
Dr. Divya provides a calm, respectful, and unhurried consultation environment — adapted to the pace and needs of older adults and their families.
Cognitive & Psychiatric Assessment
A thorough evaluation of cognitive function, mood, behaviour, and medical history. Dr. Divya uses validated assessment tools alongside careful clinical observation to build an accurate picture.
Diagnosis & Family Discussion
A clear explanation of findings — in plain language — for both the patient and family members. Understanding the diagnosis is the essential first step to managing it well.
Personalised Treatment & Management
Treatment may include medication, non-pharmacological interventions, caregiver guidance, environmental modification strategies, and coordination with other specialists where needed.
Carer Support & Follow-up
Caring for someone with dementia or late-life mental illness is exhausting. Dr. Divya provides practical guidance and emotional support for caregivers — not just the patient.
First Visit
What to Expect in Your First Consultation
The first consultation is calm, respectful, and paced for the older adult.
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Family members are welcome and encouraged to attend
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The session covers medical history, current concerns, and a cognitive assessment
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Dr. Divya will speak directly to the patient, not around them
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No procedures — just a careful, respectful conversation
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Clear next steps are explained before you leave
Many families leave with a sense of relief — finally having a clear picture of what is happening, and a path forward they can follow together.
What Changes
Outcomes & Benefits
We will always be honest about what is realistic. With the right support and time, families and individuals often notice meaningful changes.
Accurate diagnosis — removing uncertainty and enabling better planning
Reduced and better-managed behavioural symptoms in dementia
Improved mood, sleep, and quality of life for the older adult
Practical strategies to make home care safer and more sustainable
Reduced caregiver stress and burnout
Greater confidence in navigating the healthcare system
Timing
When to Seek Help
Early assessment makes a significant difference — both for the patient and the family.
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Memory lapses that are increasing in frequency or affecting daily functioning
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Noticeable personality or mood changes in an older adult that have persisted for weeks
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Safety concerns at home — getting lost, forgetting to eat, leaving the stove on
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A diagnosis of dementia has been made and you need ongoing management or a second opinion
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You are a caregiver and are feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or unable to cope
Do not wait for a crisis. Early support leads to better outcomes for everyone involved.
Not sure if you need help?
It is completely okay to reach out just to ask. Dr. Divya and the team are happy to help you figure out whether a consultation is the right next step — with no pressure.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is memory loss a normal part of ageing?
Some slowing of memory and processing speed is normal. But significant memory loss, personality changes, or confusion that affects daily life is not — and deserves proper assessment. Conditions like Alzheimer's disease are medical conditions, not inevitable parts of ageing.
What is the difference between dementia and Alzheimer's disease?
Alzheimer's is the most common type of dementia, accounting for roughly 60–70% of cases. Dementia is an umbrella term for conditions that affect memory, thinking, and behaviour. Dr. Divya can assess which type is present — which matters significantly for treatment.
Can dementia be treated?
There is currently no cure for most forms of dementia, but symptoms can be managed effectively. Medication, structured routines, cognitive engagement, and family support can significantly improve quality of life and slow progression in some cases.
My elderly parent refuses to see a doctor. What should I do?
This is very common. Dr. Divya can advise on how to approach the conversation gently, and can speak with the family first to help plan the best approach. A telepsychiatry consultation can sometimes be a less intimidating first step.
Is geriatric psychiatry available in Coimbatore?
Yes. Dr. Divya C.R. at Intune Mind offers specialised geriatric psychiatric care in Coimbatore, with advanced training from the International Dementia Academy. Both in-person and remote consultations are available.
Supporting your loved one starts with one conversation.
Book a consultation with Dr. Divya C.R. at Intune Mind, Coimbatore. In-person and telepsychiatry appointments available.