Meaningful lives: elders in treatment for depression.
Depression among elderly persons is common. Major depression is disabling, highly prevalent, and adversely affects daily function and quality of life. Although studies have demonstrated that interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) and medication can relieve the symptoms of depression, many elders do not seek treatment. Of those elders who do participate in treatment experience, 20% to 50% do not experience partial or full relief from depressive symptoms. Improvements in treatment strategies are needed to better serve this population. In this study, 20 elders in treatment for depression with IPT and medication were interviewed to better understand their day-to-day lives. These interviews provided insights and perspectives to inform clinical practice and improve treatment strategies. The major themes identified were independence, spirituality, family, depression, medical comorbidities, and motivation. Potential treatment strategies were derived from these themes.
Tucker Psychiatric Clinic, Richmond, VA; Nursing and Psychiatric Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA. jamesrivert@comcast.net
Meredith
M
Ragan
Catherine F
CF
Kane
D000203:Activities of Daily Living / Q000523:psychology; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000928:Antidepressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003865:Major Depressive Disorder / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology; D005195:Family Relations; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D008132:Loneliness / Q000523:psychology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D026684:Personal Autonomy; D011613:Psychotherapy; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology*; D012919:Social Behavior; D012931:Social Environment; D029181:Spirituality
D000928:Antidepressive Agents