The Depressed Patient: Social Antecedents of Psychopathologic Changes in the Elderly

Depression in elderly occurs in approx. 30% of those over 65. The chief cause of psychiatric hospitalization among elderly, it had great potential for inanition & suicidal death. Rolelessness, loss of coping ability & helplessness are often related to depression & behaviorial problems. Geriatric stereotypes, especially those held by health care workers nurture the above by reinforcing such behaviors. Relevance of psycho or sociotherapy with older persons is outlined.