A specialist in psychiatry and geriatrics

I am a medical doctor, a specialist in psychiatry and geriatrics.
Geriatrics is a field of medicine focused on the health of older adults — it takes into account that at this age several illnesses often coexist, and medications may work differently than in younger patients. Psychiatry helps diagnose and treat difficulties related to mood, anxiety, sleep, behaviour, and memory.

Combining these two specialisations offers patients a very practical advantage. In older adults, psychological and physical symptoms often overlap, and similar problems may have different causes. This allows me to assess the situation more broadly and safely — so that treatment is effective and at the same time well-adjusted to age, coexisting medical conditions, and medications being taken. As a result, it becomes easier to avoid unnecessary mistakes, oversimplifications, and sometimes years of unrecognised issues. The treatment plan becomes more precise.

This approach is particularly helpful when questions arise such as:

• “Is this depression or the beginning of dementia?”
• “Why has the memory worsened?”
• “What is causing sudden anxiety or insomnia?”
• “Are these medications truly safe at this age?”

In such situations, it is essential to understand both the mental and physical health of an older person — including chronic diseases, polypharmacy, and potential interactions.

For example, memory problems interpreted by a patient as the beginning of dementia may in fact be a symptom of depression. After antidepressant treatment, memory returns to normal. A sudden decline in a patient’s mental functioning, often noticed by family members, may result from medications with anticholinergic effects or drug-induced electrolyte disturbances. Many physical illnesses — especially those accompanied by pain or uncertain prognosis — are associated with anxiety and sleep disturbances.

I have been working at the Institute of Psychiatry and Neurology in Warsaw since 1996 — one of the most important centres in Poland for the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric and neurological disorders. It is an environment of high clinical standards and extensive experience in working with patients with complex health problems. I am particularly dedicated to treating older adults with memory disorders and other psychological difficulties. At the Institute, I gained experience across various forms of care:

• an inpatient psychogeriatric ward — for patients requiring intensive diagnostics and supervision,
• a day unit — enabling regular therapy without 24-hour hospitalisation,
• an outpatient clinic — allowing calm, long-term treatment.

This experience enables me to select the most appropriate form of support and treatment for the real situation of the patient and their family — both when symptoms are sudden and severe, and when stable, well-planned outpatient care is needed.

My interest in dementia-related problems and family support developed early in my career. I was involved in the work of the Polish Alzheimer’s Association, co-created a support group for caregivers, and initiated rehabilitation-and-respite programmes for patients and their families. This experience strengthened my belief that good care includes not only medical treatment, but also real support for the family and clear, practical guidance.

For more than 20 years, I have also run a private medical practice. I am the co-author of guides for caregivers of people with dementia (including Alzheimer’s Disease, ed. T. Parnowski; How to Cope with Dementia, ed. T. Parnowski), scientific publications, and books on the mental health of older adults (including Emergency Conditions. Geriatrics, ed. K. Broczek and K. Jankowski; Depression in Old Age, ed. T. Parnowski), as well as preventive programmes.

At the IN-MED Centre, I diagnose and treat mental disorders in older adults, particularly:

• memory disorders,
• dementia syndromes, including Alzheimer’s disease,
• depression and other mood disorders,
• anxiety disorders,
• behavioural disturbances.

During consultations, I prioritise a calm, supportive atmosphere and clear communication. I want patients and their families to receive understandable explanations of the situation and a concrete plan for further steps.

I have a contract with the National Health Fund (NFZ) enabling me to issue prescriptions for reimbursed medications. I also issue medical leave certificates and other documentation. Additionally, I am authorised to perform medical examinations for driver licence candidates.