Propiedades psicométricas de la escala geriátrica de depresión (GDS): análisis procedente de cuatro investigaciones

Abstract

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to determine the psychometric characteristics and factorial structure of the GDS scale, which would help and complement interpretation of the overall GDS score. MethodsThe 516 elderly participants were from four investigations. The mean age was 75 years and participants were from 27 nursing homes (51.7%) and from the community (48.3%); 41.7% were men and 58.3% were women. None showed cognitive impairment. A correlational method within a cross-sectional design was used. The subjects were similar in age, social class, and cognitive impairment. ResultsThe GDS showed good internal consistency (0.8) and test-retest reliability (0.8, p < 0.01). The exploratory factorial analysis revealed a 6-component structure (44.3% of explained variance): a) depressive and anxious mood state; b) well-being and optimism; c) worries and pessimism; d) cognitive functioning; e) loss of interest and anhedonia, and f) social activity. ConclusionsThe GDS provides valid and reliable information on depressive symptomatology in the elderly. While the overall score is related to depressive cognitive components, two solid factors can be observed: one of them is a mood component and the other is linked more to subjective well-being. This allows more accurate delimitation of depressive symptomatology in the elderly using the GDS scale. Some outcomes suggest the advisability of reducing the length of the instrument.