Geriatrics » Clinical evaluation of common complaints

Depression In The Elderly

Depression is a disorder characterized by feelings of sadness and despair and ranging in severity from mild to life threatening. Depression is one of the most common psychiatric disorders among the elderly. Depression is one of the most common risk factors for suicide. The elderly make fewer suicide gestures but more often succeed at suicide attempts. A thorough history and physical examination, including complete neurologic and mental status assessment is important Treatment of severe depression with melancholic features is primarily pharmacologic. Choosing a drug depends primarily on which one produces the fewest adverse effects. ECT is used for severely depressed patients, especially those who have previously responded to ECT, those who demonstrate significant psychotic symptoms or self-destructive behaviour and those who do not tolerate or respond to antidepressants.

In order to proceed further, you need to have an account on IDG.
Create a new account now

Registered users, you can login below to access this page.