Recognizing depression in the elderly

The signs and symptoms of depression in elderly patients are difficult to differentiate from symptoms of normal aging. The lives of institutionalized elderly tend to be heavily laden with interpersonal losses, failing health, loss of social and economic resources, and loss of control. One major problem in managing depression in the elderly concerns adequacy of present diagnostic measures. Most existing depression rating scales have been developed and validated in younger populations. Identification of elder perceptions is central to accurate assessment and the development of interventions enabling elders to regain a sense of control in decision making within their current living situations. Findings suggest that responses to the Beck Depression Inventory in conjunction with individualized nursing assessment can facilitate identification of specific symptoms that should be further evaluated.