M S Sherina1, L Rampal, A Mustaqim. 1. Department of Community Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of depression among the elderly and to identify its associated factors. METHODS: A cross sectional study design was used. Stratified proportionate cluster sampling method was used to select the respondents. A 30 item Geriatric Depression Scale questionnaire was used as a screening instrument. RESULTS: 7.6% of the elderly were found to have depression. Only employment status was found to be significantly associated with depression. DISCUSSION: The prevalence of depression in the elderly was 7.6%. Primary Care providers need to be vigilant when treating elderly patients as depression is commonly found in this age group.
OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of depression among the elderly and to identify its associated factors. METHODS: A cross sectional study design was used. Stratified proportionate cluster sampling method was used to select the respondents. A 30 item Geriatric Depression Scale questionnaire was used as a screening instrument. RESULTS: 7.6% of the elderly were found to have depression. Only employment status was found to be significantly associated with depression. DISCUSSION: The prevalence of depression in the elderly was 7.6%. Primary Care providers need to be vigilant when treating elderly patients as depression is commonly found in this age group.