Prevalence and risk factors for depression in elderly North Indians

Abstract

Background: Depression in elderly is a public health problem. Aims and Objectives: To determine the prevalence of depression and its correlates among the elderly population. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among elderly aged 60 years and above using two-stage cluster sampling technique among elderly residing in the rural and urban areas of Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh, India. A written consent was taken from each participant after explaining the purpose of the study. Results: Of the 800 subjects, 76 (9.5%) were found to be suffering from depression. The logistic regression analysis revealed that elderly having lower income, consuming tobacco, experiencing stressful life event in the past 1 year, having 3 or more chronic diseases, and lacking positive approach toward life and were found to be more depressed. Conclusion: The study conducted in Shimla district shows that one-tenth of the elderly residing in the study area suffering from depression. Elderly having lower income, residing in the urban area, experiencing significant life event, suffering from multimorbidity, and lacking positive approach toward life increase should be identified by screening. They should be focused on so as to reduce the probability of occurrence of depression.

Keywords

• Depression
• elderly
• Indian