Geriatric Special Topics: Late Life Depression- 4HR

Course overview

Contrary to popular belief, depression is not a normal part of aging. Although depression is less likely in older adults when compared to younger adults it has serious consequences for the individual, his or her family, and our society. Depression in late life interferes with a person’s ability to function, decreases quality of life, increases risk of morbidity and mortality (including suicide), and increases use of health care services. The prevalence of major depression and clinically significant depressive symptoms in adults older than 60 years of age varies depending on the clinical context. The numbers of older adults with a diagnosis of clinical depression is increasing. On completion of this course, the reader should be able to: • Describe what is meant by late-life depression. • Discuss the major risk factors for late-life depression. • Discuss the consequences of late-life depression. • Identify the core competencies of a systematic nursing assessment for depression with older adults. • Identify nursing strategies for older adults with depression.