Justification: Research has shown the prevalence of DSM major depression is lower in older compared to younger adults. Yet the prevalence of depressive symptoms not meeting DSM criteria among elders is high, suggesting the current nomenclature may not capture the full spectrum of depression seen in older adults, leaving many undiagnosed and potentially untreated.
Objectives: To examine subthreshold depression in older adults
Methods: The data used were from the Duke University Established Populations for Epidemiologic Studies of the Elderly (EPESE) baseline survey of 4000 community dwelling adults 65 or older.
Results: The prevalence of CES-D depression, defined as 9+ symptoms on a modified scale (equivalent to 16+ on the standard scale), was 9.1%. The prevalence of subthreshold depression, defined as 6-8 symptoms, was 9.9%. Like more symptomatic depression, the prevalence of subthreshold depression was higher in females and increased with age in both males and females. In ordinal logistic regression, both levels of depression were significantly associated with difficulties in performing activities of daily living (OR=1.6), cutting down on usual activities the past three months (OR=2.1), poorer self-rated health (OR=1.9), the use of psychotropic medications (OR=1.9), perceived low social support (OR=2.5), and being unmarried (OR=1.5).
Significance: These findings show a syndrome of clinically meaningful depressive symptoms not meeting DSM criteria is very prevalent in older adults. More importantly, depression in these elders appears to exist along a continuum,with individuals with subthreshold depression similar to those with more symptomatic depression in terms of demographics and social and physical health correlates.
Learning Objectives: Increase understanding of depression in older adults
Keywords: Depression, Aging
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.