An analysis of epidemiological studies on depression in the elderly using a specific approach, which separated severe and mild forms of depressive disorders, and compared the results with the rates in younger age groups, has been undertaken. This did not provide a clear answer to the question of whether there is an increase in depressive disorders in the elderly. The prevalence of severe depressive disorders (endogenous depression) varied between 1 and 3.7% according to different epidemiological surveys. The incidence seemed to be about 1-2 patients per 1,000 population with a slight preponderance of females. Milder forms of depression, corresponding with DSM III diagnoses of dysphoria or dysthymic disorders, were found to have slightly higher prevalence rates. Results of research amongst the elderly on age-dependent increases in depression are conflicting. Some authors have reported a slight increase in both the prevalence and incidence of depression in the elderly, particularly in males, others have reported a decrease particularly in females. While the increase of suicides amongst the elderly, particularly in males has been documented this appears to be in conflict with the reported prevalence rates of depression in the elderly.

Keywords:
Depression, Elderly, prevalence
This content is only available via PDF.
© 1994 S. Karger AG, Basel
1994
Copyright / Drug Dosage / Disclaimer
Copyright: All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be translated into other languages, reproduced or utilized in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, microcopying, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Drug Dosage: The authors and the publisher have exerted every effort to ensure that drug selection and dosage set forth in this text are in accord with current recommendations and practice at the time of publication. However, in view of ongoing research, changes in government regulations, and the constant flow of information relating to drug therapy and drug reactions, the reader is urged to check the package insert for each drug for any changes in indications and dosage and for added warnings and precautions. This is particularly important when the recommended agent is a new and/or infrequently employed drug.
Disclaimer: The statements, opinions and data contained in this publication are solely those of the individual authors and contributors and not of the publishers and the editor(s). The appearance of advertisements or/and product references in the publication is not a warranty, endorsement, or approval of the products or services advertised or of their effectiveness, quality or safety. The publisher and the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to persons or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content or advertisements.
You do not currently have access to this content.