Recognition and differentiation of elderly depression in the clinical setting.
Primary care physicians must realize that depression is a prevalent source of excess disability among their elderly patients. However, when depression strikes the elderly patient, it often goes unrecognized and untreated. By maintaining a high index of suspicion, clinicians will be prepared to conduct a focused clinical interview that can uncover depression otherwise masked by prominent somatic and anxiety-related complaints. Initiation of antidepressant treatment in elderly depressed patients is an important life-enhancing and life-saving measure.
D000368:Aged; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005194:Family Practice; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006801:Humans; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D013405:Suicide / Q000523:psychology