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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 13, 2026

A New Method for Inducing a Depression-Like Behavior in Rats

A New Method for Inducing a Depression-Like Behavior in Rats

Published on: February 22, 2018

Gender differences in depression among the very old.

Ellinor Bergdahl¹, Per Allard, Lena Alex

¹Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Geriatric Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden. ellinor.bergdahl@germed.umu.se

International Psychogeriatrics

|July 27, 2007

Summary

Depression is more common in older women. Loneliness and reduced mobility are key risk factors for depression in both genders, while the loss of a child is a significant factor for men.

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Area of Science:

Geriatric Psychiatry
Epidemiology of Aging

Background:

Depression is a prevalent mental health concern in the elderly population.
Understanding gender-specific risk factors in advanced age is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

To identify factors associated with depression in individuals aged 85 and over.
To compare depression prevalence and associated factors between men and women in this age group.

Main Methods:

Population-based study conducted in northern Sweden.
Included 363 participants aged 85, 90, or 95+.
Utilized structured interviews, medical chart reviews, and caregiver information; Geriatric Depression Scale-15 and Montgomerysberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) were used for assessment.

Main Results:

Women exhibited a higher prevalence of depression (33% vs. 18.6%).
Loneliness and reduced outdoor mobility were independently associated with depression in both genders.
For men, the loss of a child in the preceding decade was a significant independent risk factor for depression.

Conclusions:

Depression is more common in elderly women compared to men.
Loneliness and inability to go outside independently are strongly linked to depression in older adults.
The loss of a child is a particularly impactful factor contributing to depression in elderly men.