Depression Management: Daily Practice in Dutch and Flemish Nursing Homes

Background Despite the numerous guidelines and training programs, depression remains highly prevalent among nursing home residents. Objective Exploring depression care strategies currently applied in nursing homes. Methods A cross-sectional observational study. Results 204 residents from 46 care units (21 Dutch and 25 Flemish) participated. Approximately one in five participating residents had an official depression diagnosis. Regular screening and monitoring procedures were reported in 17 (37%) care units and established in one in five participants. Depression management was organized in multidisciplinary teams. Non-pharmacological interventions, such as restructuring daily schedules and offering pleasant/meaningful activities, were frequently employed. Evaluation procedures were conducted in 26 (56%) of the care units and established in one in five participants. Clinical and statistical relevant regional differences in depression care strategies were found at the nursing homes’ unit level. Conclusion Depression remains prevalent among nursing home residents. Areas for improving depression care included monitoring, screening, and evaluating procedures.