Diagnosis and treatment of depression in late life

Article Abstract:

Depression in aging people is a common health problem which often goes undiagnosed. Neither the patient nor physician may recognize the problem because of the aging person's other physical and social problems. A depressed mood may be less prominent than other symptoms as appetite loss, sleeplessness, lack of energy and loss of interest in normal activities. Risk and recovery factors and recurrence rate are similar to those in young people. However there are more suicides among the elderly. Many older people live alone and have inadequate support systems or little contact with a physician so their problem is not diagnosed and treated. Older people must be treated with antidepressants long enough to be effective. They should receive support when life crises occur. The attitude of health care providers who may feel depression is part of the aging process may complicate diagnosis.

Management, Geriatric psychiatry

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Community-integrated home-based depresion treatment in older adults

Article Abstract:

The effectiveness of a home based program of detecting and managing minor depression or dysthymia among older adults is determined. The Program to Encourage Active, Rewarding Lives for Seniors (PEARLS ), a community integrated, home based treatment for depression, significantly reduced depressive symptoms and improved health status of older adults with minor depression and dysthymia.

United States, Science & research, Health aspects, Research, Depression, Mental, Depression (Mood disorder), Geriatrics

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The Challenge of Depression in Late Life: Bridging Science and Service in Primary Care

Article Abstract:

A study published in 2000 shows that many elderly people with mild depression can be treated in a primary care setting. The study compared the anti-depressant Paxil or problem-solving therapy with a placebo, or inactive substance.

Editorial

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