Depression in Older Adults: A Treatable Medical Condition

Prim Care. 2017 Sep;44(3):499-510. doi: 10.1016/j.pop.2017.04.007. Epub 2017 Jul 18.

Abstract

Depression is not a normal part of the aging process. Depression in older adults is a treatable medical condition; a variety of psychotherapeutic options are available. Electroconvulsive therapy is a useful treatment. Older patients must be viewed in their medical, functional, and social context for effective management. Cognition must be assessed along with mood in the older patient with depression.

Keywords: Antidepressants; Depression; Electroconvulsive therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cognitive Dysfunction / complications
  • Depression / diagnosis
  • Depression / drug therapy
  • Depression / psychology
  • Depression / therapy*
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / diagnosis
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / drug therapy
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / therapy
  • Electroconvulsive Therapy
  • Humans

Substances

  • Antidepressive Agents