American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Geriatric Psychiatry Certification Examination

The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology Geriatric Psychiatry Certification Examination is a subspecialty examination for psychiatrists who demonstrate expertise in evaluating and treating older adults. It assesses knowledge used in clinical practice, including age-related changes, psychiatric diagnosis, treatment planning, and the interaction of medical, neurological, cognitive, and psychosocial factors. Candidates commonly pursue certification after advanced training in geriatric psychiatry and the required primary specialty credentials. Eligibility depends on ABPN requirements and the candidate’s training and certification pathway, so review the current ABPN materials before applying.

Geriatric psychiatry exam preparation should cover neurocognitive disorder assessment and diagnosis, Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, delirium recognition and management, and late-life depression and suicide risk. Candidates should also review broader clinical decision-making for older adults, including medication considerations, comorbid medical conditions, and safety. The examination’s exact format, administration details, and eligibility rules can change by cycle; consult the ABPN’s current certification information and examination materials for authoritative guidance. A structured review plan that combines core references with timed question practice can help identify gaps and strengthen clinical reasoning.