Frequency and predictors of depression among the elderly population of Karachi

CONTEXT: Depression among the elderly is falsely considered as a normal part of aging and hence remains un-diagnosed in the majority. Elderly people are at a high risk of depression, which may produce a negative impact on their quality of life. Depression is a potentially treatable condition; hence, it is worthwhile to explore its burden in order to ensure its timely evaluation and management. AIMS: To determine the frequency and predictors of depression among the elderly population of Karachi. SETTINGS AND DESIGN: The current study was a cross-sectional study, conducted in out-patient clinics of a tertiary care hospital and its out-reach centers located in different areas of Karachi. METHODS AND MATERIAL: Patients aged 60 years and above were enrolled in the study. Demographic profiles and physical health conditions were investigated. Depression was assessed using Geriatric Depression Scale-15. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Data were entered in SPSS version 21 for statistical analysis. RESULTS: A total of 232 participants were enrolled into the study with a median age of 65.8 [inter-quartile range = 61–69] years. Out of 232 participants, 186 (80.2%) were found to be depressed. In the multi-variable model, employment status, financial issues, and peer groups were left as independent predictors of depression. CONCLUSION: The current study found a significant burden of depression among elderly people in Karachi. Employment status, financial problems, and relationship with peers have been identified as risk factors of depression. There might be over-reporting of depression as the data collection was conducted during the coronavirus disease 2019 first wave. Hence, further community-based research is warranted to confirm the findings.