Conference paper

RECOGNISING AND TREATING DEPRESSION IN THE ELDERLY

Ranbir Singh ; East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
Nadeem Mazi-Kotwal ; East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
Madhusudan Deepak Thalitaya ; East London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK ; Twinwoods Medical Centre, Clapham, Bedfordshire, Bedford, UK

Abstract

Introduction: 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.
Diagnosis: Recognizing depression in the elderly is not always easy. Medical illnesses are a common trigger for depression.
Treatment: 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.
Prognosis: The prognosis for recovery is equal in young and old patients, although remission may take longer to achieve in
older patients.
Further Care: 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.

Keywords

depression; elderly

Hrčak ID:

264500

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/264500

Publication date:

8.9.2015.

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