 Key features of depression and its management in general practice. |
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"..I'd like to return to work.." |
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1. Depression affects up to 25% of the community-dwelling elderly. |
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2. The prevalence of depression is higher in nursing home residents. |
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3. Subsyndromal depressions in the elderly are associated with increased risk of physical disability. |
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4. Subsyndromal depressions in the elderly are typically long lasting. |
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5. Depression in older individuals is often missed by health care providers. |
1. Depression affects up to 25% of the community-dwelling elderly.
Author's answer: True.
While recent studies report a 1% to 2% prevalence of major depression and a 2% prevalence of dysthymia among community-dwelling elderly, much higher rates (13%-27%) in this age group are observed for sub-syndromal depressions (Depression that does not meet Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, criteria for major depression or dysthymia).