[Depression in older persons]

Depression is a common problem in old age, especially among those with various medical illnesses. Aging brings about numerous losses that might lead to depression: loss of health, loved ones and social roles. Some of older persons develop depression. Depression in old age is a serious illness. The suicide rate among older persons is very high. Approximately 90% of elderly people who commit suicide suffer from depression. Adequate treatment of depression in late life includes reducing and resolving depressive symptoms, preventing its relapse and reoccurrence, improving quality of life, and reducing mortality and healthcare costs.

32 female inpatients were examined. All patients suffered from depressive disorder (middle, according to International Classification of Diseases (ICD-X). Only patients without cognitive impairment were included in the study, according to Mini-Mental State Examination. Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression was used as primary measure of efficacy. Patients were evaluated for efficacy weekly. For statistical analysis t test was used.

Depressive disorders are more severe among older patients, with greater suicidal risk, anxiety and psychomotor agitation. Patients treated with moclobemide show quicker remission of depressive symptoms compared to patients who were treated with mianserin.

Depressive disorders among older patient are very serious illnesses, but with adequate therapy, symptoms can disappear, and there is no difference between remission in depression among older and younger patients.