Depression Among Elderly In A Rural Area Of Tamilnadu – A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Depression is a common problem in older adults but it is not a part of normal ageing process. According to Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1% to 5% of the general elderly population are affected by depression. It is often misdiagnosed as many of its symptoms mimic normal age related issues. Depression in older adults may affect their daily activities, reduces their quality of life and increases their suicidal risk. Hence this study is conducted to assess prevalence of depression among elderly people in a rural population. Methods: A community based cross sectional study was conducted in a rural area of Tamilnadu among elderly people aged 60 and above using a semi-structured questionnaire containing sociodemographic details and Geriatric Depression Scale(GDS)- Short Form after obtaining informed consent from the participants. Conclusion: Among 166 participants, 42.8% had depression. Depression was more prevalent in elderly who were 80 years and above, female participants, who were economically dependent on others, living alone and widowed/separated. Depression has to be diagnosed early and promptly treated to prevent adverse outcomes.