Estimation of prevalence of depression among elderly population in Ron Taluk Karnataka South India

Depression is a prevalent condition, particularly among older adults, yet it often remains under-recognized. In rural India, elderly, especially women, face a heightened risk of depression due to prevailing stigma and inadequate social support. This study sought to determine the prevalence of depression in Ron Taluka to inform targeted intervention strategies. (1) To estimate the prevalence of depression among the elderly population. (2) To examine the association between depression and socio-demographic factors. A community-based cross sectional study was conducted on elderly people (≥ 60 years) in three villages of Ron Taluk from November 2024 to February 2025. A total of 346 participants were included in this study. Participants were selected using proportionate and systematic sampling methods. Data were collected by visiting the participants’ households using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire and the standardized World Health Organization Geriatric Depression Scale-15 (GDS-15). findings were presented using frequency distributions, percentages, and Chi-square tests. The study included 346 elderly participants and revealed an 83% prevalence of depression, primarily among males aged 60–70 years with limited educational attainment. Most participants lived in joint family settings and relied on government assistance. Only 35.5% of participants opined their health as good. Depression was correlated with variables such as sex, age, education, health status, and income. The study found a high prevalence of depression among the elderly in study area, with a significant association with sex, age, education, income, and health. These findings underscore the need for community-based mental health interventions focusing on vulnerable elderly subgroups.