The American Journal of Psychology published an article which linked factors such as bereavement, sleep disturbance, disability, prior depression, and female gender as important risk factors for depression among elderly people.
Caregivers, be it family or paid, are on the front line of care and are usually in the most opportune position to observe symptoms of depression. There are many seniors who quietly suffer through the debilitating effects of depression and are oftentimes left undiagnosed. Knowing what signs to look for is the first step to helping a loved one receive the help they need. Cultural and generational barriers are also factors that get in the way of help. For years, there has been a certain level of stigma attached to mental health diagnosis, a senior person may feel ashamed or afraid to communicate their concerns fearing labels, or placement in an institutional setting. Your primary care physician is the right person to discuss your concerns with. She/he may also refer to a geriatric specialist for further testing.
Call our office today for more information on the subject or for home care services in general:609-450-1719.
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Scoring Instructions
Instructions:
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Score 1 point for each bolded answer. A score of 5 or more suggests depression.
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1.
Are you basically satisfied with your life?
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yes
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no
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2.
Have you dropped many of your activities and interests?
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yes
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no
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3.
Do you feel that your life is empty?
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yes
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no
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4.
Do you often get bored?
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yes
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no
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5.
Are you in good spirits most of the time?
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yes
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no
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6.
Are you afraid that something bad is going to happen to you?
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yes
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no
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7.
Do you feel happy most of the time?
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yes
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no
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8.
Do you often feel helpless?
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yes
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no
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9.
Do you prefer to stay at home, rather than going out and doing things?
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yes
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no
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10.
Do you feel that you have more problems with memory than most?
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yes
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no
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11.
Do you think it is wonderful to be alive now?
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yes
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no
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12.
Do you feel worthless the way you are now?
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yes
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no
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13.
Do you feel full of energy?
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yes
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no
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14.
Do you feel that your situation is hopeless?
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yes
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no
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15.
Do you think that most people are better off than you are?
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yes
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no
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A score of > 5 suggests depression
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Total Score
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Ref. Yes average: The use of Rating Depression Series in the Elderly, in Poon (ed.): Clinical Memory Assessment of Older Adults, American Psychological Association, 1986
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