Late-life depression, clinical picture, etiology, therapeutic options

In our review we discuss various forms of aging and briefly touch upon its psychological aspects. We also explore the prevalence of and the clinical manifestations associated with late-life depression. We present the etiological factors of late-life depression, including psychological and psychosocial factors, as well as biological causes such as genetic and epigenetic factors, immune, inflammatory and neurodegenerative processes, changes in neurotransmitter and neurotrophic systems, alterations in the HPA axis, and the impact of physical illnesses, medications, and hormonal changes. The process of differential diagnosis is summarised, along with an exploration of the complex concept of quality of life. We provide an overview of the characteristics of suicide in older populations and offer insight into the key pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions. (Neuropsychopharmacol Hung 2025; 27(1): 51-64)