Effectiveness of Interdisciplinary Team’s Collaborative Care in Reducing Depressive Symptoms in Older Adults

Depression in older adults is a widespread mental health concern, with risk factors including chronic illness, social isolation, and functional decline. Despite its prevalence, it is frequently underdiagnosed, as its symptoms often overlap with those of normal aging or coexisting medical problems, thereby complicating timely detection and effective treatment. This study examined the effectiveness of interdisciplinary team’s collaborative care in reducing depressive symptoms in older adults enrolled in a community-based comprehensive care program. A retrospective one-group pretest and posttest design was utilized, reviewing health records of 49 participants who underwent initial and follow-up depression screenings using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. During a six-month period, a structured care model was implemented that included regular meetings among eleven interdisciplinary professionals. The team developed and applied individualized care plans addressing each participant’s physical, psychological, and social needs. Results demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in depressive symptoms, with mean scores decreasing from 5.76 to 2.84, and over 70 percent of participants shifting from higher severity categories to the minimal symptom category. Analysis using a non-parametric statistical test confirmed the reliability of this change. The findingssuggest that interdisciplinary collaborative care effectively reduces depressive symptomsin older adults by enabling comprehensive, person-centered interventions. This model may serve as a valuable strategy to address depression in aging populations and improve overall quality of life. Future research is recommended to explore its long-term impact and applicability to broader settings.