Evaluating the Effect of Depression Among Elderly People in Old Age Homes

Abstract

The global population is getting older, with a noticeable increase in the number of elderly persons in both developed and developing nations. Depression is viewed as more prevalent in these groups. Numerous studies have focused on the physical health of the elderly, but fewer have focused on the prevalence of depression in this population, particularly in old age homes. Using the Modified Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS -15), 120 individuals were interviewed at chosen old age homes for this study. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to the data set. Based on the data collected, researchers determined that the average level of depression among the elderly was 6.42 (standard deviation = 3.21) and that 36.0% of the population was affected by moderate depression, while 10% had severe depression. Assisting the elderly in coming to terms with their limitations while celebrating their strengths may help them maintain their independence and provide a good quality of life far into old age. Decreases in elderly depression can be achieved by the careful development and implementation of individualized interventions.