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Depression in the Elderly Living in the Community

Its Presentation and Features

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2018

O. Ben-Arie ,
L. Swartz  and
B. J. Dickman
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Abstract

A prevalence of depression of 13% was found among 139 coloured persons aged 65 years and over, living in the community in Cape Town, which accords with figures elsewhere. A high rate of hypochondriasis was found, but there was a low rate of suicidal intent, which could be explained by good social support. Observed depression and a depressed mood occurred in almost all depressed patients; as defined in the Present State Examination, these items appear to be an excellent screen for depression.

Type
Research Article
Information
The British Journal of Psychiatry , Volume 150 , Issue 2 , February 1987 , pp. 169 - 174
Copyright
Copyright © 1987 The Royal College of Psychiatrists 

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