Elderly women's explanation of depression

Using the Kleinman explanatory model, 30 elderly women with depression were interviewed about their depression and its treatment. Content analysis was used to classify data into cause, effect, severity, expectations, fears, and treatment. Identified causes were loss of health, family, and role. Depression caused somatizations and a decrease in functional level. Women considered depression to be severe and chose medication as the preferred treatment. Their model of depression differed from that of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) because fatigue and weakness were emphasized more than any other symptoms. Feelings of guilt and worthlessness, weight loss, and suicidal ideation were minimal.