Depression and social support: effective treatments for homebound elderly adults

Assessment of depression in homebound elderly adults is crucial because depression affects quality of life, mortality, and health care costs. The prevalence of depression in homebound elderly adults is estimated to range from 26% to 44% (Banerjee, Shamash, Macdonald, & Mann, 1996). Review of the literature indicates that depression is a common problem among elderly individuals; and elderly individuals can benefit from prompt treatment. This pilot study assessed the prevalence of depression in 25 homebound elderly adults in the Chicago area and the relationship of depression to perceived level of social support, measured using Yesavage and Brink's (1983) Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Sarason, Sarason, Shearin, and Pierce's (1987) Social Support Scale, and a checklist of formal services received in the home. The study was conducted in the homes of 25 home health patients. This pilot study found 52% (13) of the participants scored in the moderately depressed range on the GDS. Although satisfaction with individuals who provide social support was rated highly by all participants, the level of support was not significantly related to depression. Formal measures of social support and living alone were not found to be related to depression in this study. Depression was higher in White men. These findings have implications for the increased monitoring of depression by home health nurses and other primary care providers to homebound elderly adults.