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Depression among the very old with dementia
Ellinor Bergdahl1, Per Allard, Yngve Gustafson
1Department of Community Medicine and Rehabilitation, Geriatric Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
International Psychogeriatrics
|January 6, 2011
Summary
Depression is more prevalent in very old individuals with dementia compared to those without. Associated factors differ significantly between these groups, indicating distinct depression pathways.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Depression is a common comorbidity in older adults.
- Dementia significantly impacts mental health in the elderly population.
- Understanding depression in the context of dementia is crucial for effective care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare depression prevalence in very old individuals with and without dementia.
- To identify factors associated with depression in these two groups.
Main Methods:
- A population-based study in Sweden.
- Inclusion of 363 participants aged 85 years and above.
- Evaluation for depression and dementia.
Main Results:
- Depression prevalence was 43% in individuals with dementia versus 24% without (p < 0.001).
- Antidepressant use was common (approx. 2/3), with 50% response rates.
- Factors associated with depression differed: medication, analgesics, benzodiazepines, loneliness, mobility, and loss of a child in the non-dementia group; only loss of a child in the dementia group.
Conclusions:
- Depression is significantly more common in very old individuals with dementia.
- A substantial proportion of depressed individuals, with or without dementia, remain under-diagnosed and untreated.
- The distinct associated factors suggest different underlying mechanisms for depression in dementia versus non-dementia populations.
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