[Improvement of knowledge and attitudes towards depression and suicidality in geriatric caregivers: evaluation of an advanced training program].

Depressive disorders rank among the most frequent mental disorders in the elderly. Especially in the elderly, depressive disorders are still underrecognized and not sufficiently treated. In view of the associated risks and complications, early and timely recognition of depressive disorders is essential to avoid exacerbation and chronic manifestation of the depressive symptoms and to antagonize the increased suicide risk as well as negative effects on concomitant somatic diseases. More than any other occupational group, geriatric caregivers have a key position in the contact with clients, relatives and treating primary care providers. Therefore, 3487 geriatric caregivers from 448 outpatient nursing services throughout Bavaria participated in 196 four-hour training courses about depressive disorders and suicidality in the elderly between March 2006 and August 2007. Aim of this activity was to reduce attitudes enclosed in a wall of prejudice and to teach specific knowledge about depression and suicidality in the elderly. This training was evaluated using specially tailored questionnaires which were completed immediately before and after the continuing education as well as three months later (at follow-up). The analysis included the individual changes of 473 participants in longitudinal sections. Pronounced knowledge deficits and reservations were found regarding pharmacotherapy with antidepressants and suicidality. In this context, significant changes in all categories were present. Especially pronounced effects were found for the attitudes towards depression and suicidality as well as treatability with antidepressants. These changes were stable, as indicated by the follow-up evaluation.