Correlates of geriatric depression among urban South Indian elders

Abstract

Background Depression is expected to be the leading cause of deaths in elderly population globally in next decade. This cross sectional study aimed to explore the previously unidentified correlates and prevalence of depression in urban south Indian elders. Methods One hundred community dwelling urban elders, aged 60 years and older, participated in the study. Pretested questionnaire and forms were administered, by trained investigator, to collect information on chronic health conditions, height, weight, hip and waist circumference, blood pressure, sociodemographic history, changes in vision and cognition, medication and addictions. Presence of depression was defined using Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) scores > 5, moderate depression as scores 9 – 11 and severe depression as scores between 12 – 15. Independently associated correlates of geriatric depression were identified by using logistic regression analysis. Results 15.4% men and 31.2% women had depression and over all prevalence of geriatric depression was 23% in our population. Living single (OR:4.26; 95% CI:1.06-17.09), poor self-rated health (OR:12.09; 95% CI:1.41-103.14), bedridden status (OR:5.29; 95% CI:1.21-23.04) and osteoarthritis (OR:4.91; 95% CI:1.39-17.28) were identified as independent correlates on logistic regression. Conclusion The prevalence of geriatric depression in our population was moderate. Various correlates were associated. While addressing geriatric morbidity, screening for elderly depression in routine and management of related factors would be of significance to reduce the risk of chronic comorbidities.