Depression in the elderly in Karachi, Pakistan: a cross sectional study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Depression in elderly is a major global public health concern. There has been no population-based study of depression in the elderly in Pakistan. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of depression and its association with family support of elderly (age 60 years and above) in Karachi, Pakistan.

Methods

A population based cross-sectional study was carried out in Karachi from July-September 2008. Questionnaire based interviews were conducted with individuals (n = 953) recruited through multi-stage cluster sampling technique, using the 15- item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS).

Results

Prevalence of depression was found to be 40.6%, with a higher preponderance in women than men (50% vs. 32%). Elderly currently not living with their spouses were 6

SUBMITTER: Bhamani MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3704964 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature