Evaluation of prevalence of depression with the Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale in the elderly with chronic disease

Introduction: Due to the increase in the elderly population, the importance of diseases specific to this demographic group is also increasing. Particularly among psychiatric disorders, depression stands out during old age. This study aims to determine the prevalence of depression in individuals aged 65 and older with chronic diseases. Materials and method: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted by conducting face-to-face interviews and filling out surveys with 195 elderly individuals aged 65 and above, all of whom had any chronic illness. Patients who were unable to communicate due to changes in consciousness or difficulties in speech or hearing, and those who refused to participate in the study, were excluded from the study. In statistical analyses, descriptive statistics were used, including numbers and percentages. Methods such as chi-square and t-tests were applied using the SPSS 26 program, with a significance level set at p<0.05. Results: In our study, we examined the frequency of depression among 195 elderly individuals aged 65 and older with chronic illnesses. The evaluations conducted as a result of this study revealed that the prevalence of depression was determined to be 35.4%. The frequency of depression symptoms is higher in advanced age, being widowed or divorced, having a low level of education, perceiving a low socioeconomic status , being unemployed, receiving a pension for elderly individuals, lacking social security, living alone, stating that their children do not support them, having poor relationships with relatives, and in situations where there are a higher number of children(P<0.05). It was concluded that gender, presence of a chronic illness, use of medication, and smoking status did not affect the frequency of depression symptoms(P>0.05). Conclusion: According to the findings of our study, a significant health issue encountered by elderly individuals visiting Family Health Centers can be expressed as depression. By evaluating risk factors associated with depression in the elderly, a multidisciplinary approach should be adopted to establish preventive, therapeutic, and rehabilitative interventions specific to this age group. As family physicians, we should pay special attention to diagnosing depression during elderly patients' visits to Family Health Centers. KEYWORDS: Depression, Elderly, Family Physician, Family Health Center, Chronic Diseases