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Development of a minimum data set-based depression rating scale for use in nursing homes.
A B Burrows1, J N Morris, S E Simon
1Research and Training Institute, Hebrew Rehabilitation Center for Aged, Boston, MA 02131, USA. adam.burrows@bmc.org
Age and Ageing
|May 3, 2000
Summary
A new scale using Minimum Data Set items effectively screens for depression in nursing home residents. This tool aids in early detection, improving care for this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Psychiatry
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Depression is prevalent yet often undiagnosed in nursing home residents.
- A standardized screening tool incorporating staff observations is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a depression screening instrument using items from the Minimum Data Set (MDS).
Main Methods:
- MDS mood items correlated with Hamilton and Cornell depression scales were identified.
- Factor analysis yielded five factors, leading to a seven-item MDS Depression Rating Scale.
- The scale's performance was tested against established cut-offs and psychiatric diagnoses.
Main Results:
- A cut-point of 3 on the MDS Depression Rating Scale demonstrated high sensitivity (94% for Hamilton, 78% for Cornell) and good specificity (72% for Hamilton, 77% for Cornell).
- The scale showed 91% sensitivity and 69% specificity against major/non-major depression diagnoses.
- Performance was comparable to the Geriatric Depression Scale.
Conclusions:
- The MDS contains items that can be effectively organized to screen for depression in nursing home residents.
- Further validation studies are recommended for this novel screening instrument.