Criterion validity of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CES-D): results from a community-based sample of older subjects in The Netherlands

Psychol Med. 1997 Jan;27(1):231-5. doi: 10.1017/s0033291796003510.

Abstract

The Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CES-D) has been widely used in studies of late-life depression. Psychometric properties are generally favourable, but data on the criterion validity of the CES-D in elderly community-based samples are lacking. In a sample of older (55-85 years) inhabitants of the Netherlands, 487 subjects were selected to study criterion validity of the CES-D. Using the 1-month prevalence of major depression derived from the Diagnostic Interview Schedule (DIS) as criterion, the weighted sensitivity of the CES-D was 100%; specificity 88%; and positive predictive value 13.2%. False positives were not more likely among elderly with physical illness, cognitive decline or anxiety. We conclude that the criterion validity of the CES-D for major depression was very satisfactory in this sample of older adults.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anxiety / epidemiology
  • Chi-Square Distribution
  • Chronic Disease / epidemiology
  • Comorbidity
  • Confidence Intervals
  • Depression / diagnosis*
  • Depression / epidemiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Logistic Models
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Netherlands / epidemiology
  • Prevalence
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales / standards*
  • Reference Values
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sampling Studies
  • Sensitivity and Specificity