A study on prevalence and correlates of depression among elderly population of rural South India

Background: Globally the population is ageing rapidly. According to WHO it is projected that the number of persons aged 60 or over is expected to more than triple by 2100. As estimated by WHO, unipolar depression occurs in 7% of the general elderly population. Multiple social, psychological, and biological factors determine the level of mental health of a person. Depression is both under diagnosed and undertreated in primary care settings. Only sporadic data has been collected on mental health conditions of the elderly in India. Hence, the present study was planned to estimate the prevalence of depression among elderly and to determine its correlates in a rural setting. Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in a rural area. A semi-structured questionnaire assessing the socio-demographic characteristics and risk factors for depression was administered to 290 geriatric people. Geriatric Depression Scale (short version) and Activities of Daily Living (Basic and Instrumental) were used to assess the prevalence of depression and physical dependence respectively. Data was analysed using Epi-info version 7. Chi square test was performed to determine the statistical significance of the differences observed. Results: 9.3% of the elderly had depression. Depression was found to be significantly associated with increased age, co-morbid conditions, economic dependence and physical dependence for daily activities. Conclusions: Provision general health care service along with economic support can reduce the dependency and ultimately depression among the elderly.