Prevalence of Depression and the associated risk factors among the Elderly

Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder among the elderly. Although India is the second most populous country in the world, with the elderly accounting for 8 percent of its total population (UNDFA 2017 report), depression in the elderly is not yet perceived as an important health problem in the country. A cross sectional descriptive study was adopted to assess the prevalence of depression and the associated risk factors among the elderly. A total of 60 participants were selected using non-probability purposive sampling technique. A self-administered questionnaire was used to assess the risk factors and depression was assessed by using short form GDS (Geriatric Depression Scale). Chi-square and Fishers exact test were done to analyze the data. The total sample was 60, the males accounted for 36 (60%) and females accounted for 24 (40%) of the total sample. Among the total samples, 47 (78%) were found to be depressed. Among the various risk factors, age was significantly associated with depression (p value <0.0001). Prevalence of depression was found to be higher in female (87.5%). Awareness programmes regarding depression among elderly could ensure better quality of life for the geriatric population.