Despite the graying of the world’s population, limited research has focused on the process of aging among those living with bipolar disorder (BD) or the unique issues of older age bipolar disorder (OABD). By leveraging a large number of smaller investigations conducted across the globe, the Global Aging and Geriatric Experiments in Bipolar Disorder (GAGE-BD) project aims to increase our power to examine the dynamic characteristics of BD in later life and produce clinically-relevant findings for this understudied, yet crucial, group. In this symposium, moderated by Annemiek Dols (co PI of GAGE-BD) and Lisa Eyler (co PI of GAGE-BD and chair of the OABD taskforce), we will dive into some neglected research areas that are relevant in understanding and tailoring treatment for OABD. First, Federica Klaus will present data on global cognitive performance, executive function and brain age comparing OABD and healthy comparison (HC) in a subset of GAGE-BD. Specific cognitive domains, such as executive function may be disproportionally affected, with brain age offering an avenue for further exploration of underlying brain processes. Next, Ni Xu will present results on the cross-sectional association between lithium use and fewer physical comorbidities, hypothesized to be due to prescription bias or the potential protective effects of lithium. Lastly, Martha Sajatovic will present recommendations to improve
physical health based on several studies of GAGE-BD regarding somatic comorbidities, smoking, and psychopharmacological treatment This symposium will provide a comprehensive overview on the latest research in OABD.
