Depression and Anxiety Disorders Among Elderly Residents of Old Age Homes in Chattogram: Prevalence and Associated Predictors

Background: Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are prevalent among elderly individuals in institutional settings in developing countries like Bangladesh, driven by social isolation, chronic comorbidities, and loss of family support. This study aimed to assess the prevalence associated predictors of depression and anxiety among elderly residents of old age homes in Chattogram. Materials and methods: This cross-sectional study included 52 elderly residents (Aged ≥ 60 years) from 02 selected old age homes in Chattogram. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire, Geriatric Depression Scale-15 (GDS-15) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7). Descriptive statistics and chi-square/Fisher’s exact tests (p<0.05 significant) were performed using SPSS. Results: A total of 52 elderly residents participated in the study. The mean age of the participants was 67.2 ± 7.5 years, with a predominance of males (78.8%). Most participants had been residing in the old age home for 1–3 years (53.8%). A large majority reported rare or no family visits (80.8%) and nearly all (92.3%) had at least one chronic medical condition. The prevalence of depression, as measured by a GDS-15 score of ≥ 5, was notably high at 71.2%, comprising 32.7% mild cases and 38.5% moderate to severe cases. Likewise, the prevalence of anxiety (GAD-7 score ≥ 5) was 51.9%, distributed as 1.9% mild, 28.8% moderate and 21.2% severe cases. Conclusion: High prevalence of depression and anxiety underscores the urgent need for routine screening and targeted interventions among the residents in old age homes. IAHS Medical Journal Vol 9(1), June 2026; 15-19