Depression in the elderly requires distinguishing from dementia, addressing medical comorbidities, and considering age-related factors in treatment. Elderly depression often under-recognized due to: attribution to aging; overlap with medical symptoms; cognitive changes; and social isolation. Differentiating from dementia: depression has quicker onset, cognitive complaints worse than performance, mood prominent. Risk factors: chronic illness, loss, polypharmacy. Treatment: psychotherapy adapted for cognitive changes; SSRIs (start low, go slow due to side effects); and addressing social isolation. Nursing interventions: comprehensive assessment including suicide risk (elderly have high completion rate); monitor medication effects; encourage social engagement; and involve family. Documentation includes mood, cognition, and functional assessment. Complicated grief common. Electroconvulsive therapy effective for severe cases. Nurses screen for depression in all elderly patients. Prevention through meaningful activities and social connections. Depression in elderly is not normal aging and requires treatment.

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Zambia

• loveness Phiri – 1084 pts

• Visual Pathway Lesions
• Positive and Negative Symptoms
• Hallucinations and Delusions
• Antipsychotic Medications
• Emergency: Environmental Emergencies