[Depression in late-Life - Substantial Public Health Impact.]

Depression in late-life is common and psychosocial and biological factors are proposed. Searching for modifiable risk factors is of utmost importance. However, depression in late life is under-recognized and undertreated. Much room for improvement is determined, especially in utilizing psychotherapeutic interventions and taking advantage of internationally excellent evaluated collaborative care approaches. Late-life depression does have a major public health impact. It is an important field for health service research in Germany to optimize care.