A Study to Assess the Prevalence of Depression among Elderly Residing in Selected Old Age Home, Kancheepuram District, Tamil Nadu, 2015

Depression is the most common mental disorder among elderly especially in developing countries, causes can be multifactorial and it is poorly reported also not much concentrated by the health professionals. Elderly residing in the old age home that is away from their family experience more depression than others.

Objective: to assess the prevalence of depression and to associate the level of depression with their demographic variables.

Methods: descriptive survey approach was used in this study. Study was conducted at selected old age home, Kancheepuram district Tamilnadu. Total of 30 subjects those fulfilled inclusive criteria were utilized in this study. Considering all ethical aspect Geriatric Depression Ratting scale was used to assess the prevalence of depression.

Results: majority 66.66% of elderly had mild depression. Depression had significant association with the age of the elderly.