Recognising and Treating Depression in the Elderly

Depression is a major contributor to healthcare costs and is projected to be the leading cause of disease burden in middle and higher income countries by the year 2030. Depression in later life is associated with disability, increased mortality, and poorer outcomes from physical illness. Its prevalence remains high throughout lifetime, with almost 14% of older adults living in the community estimated to have clinically relevant symptoms of depression worldwide.

Recognizing depression in the elderly is not always easy. Medical illnesses are a common trigger for depression.

Most depressed people welcome care, concern and support, but they may be frightened and may resist help. The treatment of depression demands patience and perseverance for the patient and physician. Sometimes several different treatments must be tried before full recovery. Each person has individual biological and psychological characteristics that require individualized care.

The prognosis for recovery is equal in young and old patients, although remission may take longer to achieve in older patients.

Depression is a highly treatable medical condition and is not a normal part of growing older. Therefore, it is crucial to understand and recognize the symptoms of the illness in the primary care.