Naslov
Prevalence and symptoms of depression in the elderly

Autori
Mrduljaš-Đujic, Nataša ; Džopalić-Cvjetanović, Nada ; Dvornik-Radica, Ana ; Vrdoljak, Davorka ; Kuzmanić, Marion

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Sažeci sa skupova, sažetak, stručni

Izvornik
Abstract book of WPA&WONCA Thematic Conference” Depression and other common mental disorders in primary care” , Granada, 2008 / - Granada, 2008, 174-174

Skup
"Depression and other common mental disorders in primary care”

Mjesto i datum
Granada, Španjolska, 18.06.2008. - 21.06.2008

Vrsta sudjelovanja
Poster

Vrsta recenzije
Međunarodna recenzija

Ključne riječi
depression; elderly people

Sažetak
INTRODUCTION: Depression is patological condition in all ages as well as in elderly people. It is not the normal part of aging. Because of the various symptoms and signs and gradual course it is very often unrecognized. OBJECTIVES: To explore the symptoms of depression and comorbidity in elderly people. METHODS: The study group included 223 patients aged over 65 years, seen in family practices in Postira and Milna (island of Brač, Croatia) between December 1, 2003 and March 1, 2004. The examinees were invited to fill three questionnaires: a personal data form, a geriatric depression scale and a short pain questionnaire designed by the Croatian association for pain treatment. RESULTS: According to geriatric depression scale score 15% of the patients had symptoms of severe, and 34% of mild depression. Both genders were equally represented. In those who were depressed, anxiety, irritability and nervousness were more pronounced in comparison those without depression. Pain was correlated to depression ; the incidence of shoulder pain and lower back pain was for example higher in depressive patients (χ ² = 10.70 ; p<0.01). In the depressed group insomnia, insecurity and trouble with thoughts about future were much more intense. Relationships with neighbors were disturbed, and because of pain the quality of life was low. CONCLUSION: Family physician is mostly the health professional of first contact and long-term care for the elderly. Since among the aged persons the prevalence of depression is high it very important for primary doctors to recognize the circumstances and depth of depressive symptoms.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Kliničke medicinske znanosti, Javno zdravstvo i zdravstvena zaštita

POVEZANOST RADA