Assessing Depression in Elderly Patients

Depression is not a universal pathological state inevitably found among the aged. Yet it is common, easily misdiagnosed, or not diagnosed at all among those in the later stage of the life cycle. The assessment of depression in the elderly requires a comprehensive medical, neurological, and psychiatric evaluation. Although our diagnostic acumen and clinical abilities are challenged by the elderly, 75 to 80 percent of depressed elderly individuals can be successfully treated. Amelioration of depression will reduce morbidity and prevent unneccessary long-term institutionalization.