The author reviews recent advances in clinical presentation, epidemiology, management & prognosis of depression in old age, as well as its relationship with the risk of suicide in old age, dementia, & physical illness. He states that the suicide rate of those aged 65 and over comprises 25-30% of suicides, although they only make up 15% of the population. A study reported depression in 26 out of 30 elderly suicides, while another that elderly depression is often masked by physical illness.