Using interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) to treat depression in older primary care patients.
Depression in older adults is associated with substantial morbidity as well as mortality related to both suicide and nonsuicide causes. Lessening the burden of untreated depression in the elderly requires a flexible approach to treatment that incorporates the patient's life circumstances and treatment preferences. Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is a time-limited, evidence-based psychosocial intervention used to treat depression either alone or in combination with medication. Familiarity with its features and use can assist geriatric clinicians in optimizing outcomes for their patients with depression.
Post
Edward P
EP
Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan and National VA Serious Mental Illness Treatment Research and Evaluation Center, Ann Arbor Veteran's Affairs Healthcare System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
Miller
Mark D
MD
Schulberg
Herbert C
HC
D000368:Aged; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000523:psychology; D039721:Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D011320:Primary Health Care; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000379:methods*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D016896:Treatment Outcome