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Elderly women's explanation of depression
1University of Miami, School of Nursing, Coral Gables, Florida 33143, USA.
Journal of Gerontological Nursing
|May 31, 2002
Summary
Elderly women with depression often experience fatigue and weakness, viewing their condition as severe. Their understanding of depression, influenced by factors like health loss, differs from standard diagnostic criteria.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Medical Sociology
Background:
- Depression in elderly women is a significant health concern.
- Understanding patient explanatory models is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the explanatory models of depression among elderly women.
- To compare these models with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) criteria.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving 30 elderly women diagnosed with depression.
- Content analysis of interviews based on the Kleinman explanatory model.
- Data classified into cause, effect, severity, expectations, fears, and treatment.
Main Results:
- Identified causes included loss of health, family, and social roles.
- Depression manifested as somatizations and reduced functional levels.
- Fatigue and weakness were primary symptoms, differing from DSM-IV emphasis.
- Medication was the preferred treatment, with minimal reported guilt, worthlessness, or suicidal ideation.
Conclusions:
- Elderly women's explanatory models of depression highlight physical symptoms like fatigue and weakness.
- Patient-centered approaches are needed, acknowledging differences from formal diagnostic systems.
- Further research should explore culturally specific understandings of geriatric depression.