A Cross-Sectional Study on Prevalence of Geriatric Depression and Assessment of Its Severity and Risk Factors

BACKGROUND: In India,elderly persons constitute 8.6% of total population which is projected to reach 19% by 2050.There is lack of information on the magnitude of depression among elderly population in India.Depression is among the leading causes of disability adjusted life years in the world and a serious health problem among older adults. AIM AND OBJECTIVES: To study the prevalence of depression in geriatric patients and to assess the severity and risk factors for depression in geriatric population. METHODOLOGY; This is a cross-sectional study done in 150 geriatric patients attending Geriatric OPD in Government Rajaji Hospital,Madurai who are above 65 years in three months study period and are assessed using Semi-structured proforma to collect information regarding socio-demographic profile,Mini Mental status examination,Geriatric Depression Scale and Presumptive Stressful life events scale and ICD-10 diagnostic criteria to diagnose depression. RESULTS: Prevalence of depression was 29% of which 20% are mildy depressed.Older adults are less likely to endorse cognitive –affective symptoms of depression including dysphoria,worthlessness and guilt.Sleep disturbance ,fatigue,loss of interest ,hopelessness,poor memory are more common. CONCLUSION: The study revealed high prevalence of depression among geriatric patients attending tertiary care hospitals,Sociodemographic,clinical and psychosocial variables as risk factors for depression.But its undiagnosed and overlooked.Prevention of risk factors and early diagnosis may reduce the morbidity ,mortality and improve quality of life.