Year: 1996 Source: Home Health Care Management and Practice, v.9, no.1, (1996), p.8-17 SIEC No: 20070965

Despite the ever increasing numbers of older persons in the home health care system, often those who are suffering from a depression are not treated adequately. This article presents a case study to illustrate assessment, identification of risk factors, and interventions aimed at preventing suicide, a lethal outcome of untreated depression. Once detected, depression can be effectively treated. Nurses are vital in their role as educators and counselors in treating depression and promoting improved functioning for older persons.