Unrecognized depression in the elderly: a nursing assessment challenge.
Depression in the elderly has been widely underdiagnosed and undertreated. Geriatric depression has a unique presentation that differs from the hallmarks of depressive illness documented in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV) (American Psychiatric Association, 1994). The "masked" presentation of depression in the elderly contributes to problems with accurate assessment, prompt diagnosis, and treatment. Without treatment, there are serious negative consequences for elderly clients such as cognitive impairment, physical disability, social isolation, and suicide. Enhancing professional nurses' awareness of this underrecognized mental health problem among elderly patients is a significant priority.
Capriotti
T
T
D000368:Aged; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000451:nursing*; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006801:Humans; D008609:Mental Status Schedule; D009730:Nursing Assessment