Assessing Depression among Older Persons with Arthritis: A Nationwide Health Status Survey. (15th July 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nayak, Rajesh; Rajpura, Jigar
• Other Names: Chizzolini C. Academic Editor.; Eberhard B. A. Academic Editor.; Merlotti D. Academic Editor.; Stetler D. A. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: ISRN rheumatology. Volume 2013(2013)
• Publication Date: 2013-07-15
• Subjects: Rheumatology -- Periodicals; Rheumatic Diseases; Rheumatology; Rheumatology; Periodicals; 616.723
• DOI: 10.1155/2013/968343
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-5467

Abstract

Abstract : Objectives . This study aimed to assess the health status of a nationwide sample of elderly persons having arthritis and determine the prevalence of depressive symptomatology in this population. Methods . WebTV technology was utilized to administer health status and depression surveys to a nationally representative sample of 550 randomly selected older persons. Predetermined cutoff scores on Short Form-36 (SF-36) scale and Center for Epidemiological Scale for Depression (CES-D) were used to identify individuals with depressive mood. Results . Sixteen percent (n = 76 ) of the respondents were found to be at risk for depression. Key associations among health domains of SF-36 and CES-D variables were statistically significant and were in the expected direction. Discussion . The risk of depression among older adults who have arthritis is moderate. A significant decline in multiple domains of health of older persons is likely when depression coexists with arthritis. Early screening for depressive symptomatology and prompt treatment should be an essential part of arthritis management in primary care practice.