THE PREVALENCE OF DEPRESSION AMONG ELDERLY IN RURAL COMMUNITY AREA OF SOUTHERN PERAK

Abstract

Geriatric depressive disorder is a major public health concern around the world, contributing to increasing healthcare costs and mortality. Depression is commonly found in elderly, thus primary care provider should be vigilant when treating elderly patient. The increase prevalence of depression in Asia among elderly and the clear association between depression and old age suicide need to give attention, prevention and intervention. This study desired to determine the prevalence of depression among elderly in rural community area of southern Perak. 283 participant was involved in this study. Geriatric Depression Scale Malay Version (GDS- M-14) was used to measure the prevalence of depression among participant. The result of this study showed that there is significant association between age and total score of Geriatric Depression Scale ( GDS ) ( p= 0.002 ). This study also showed that there is perfect significant correlation between living arrangement and total score of Geriatric Depression Scale ( GDS ) ( p< 0.01 ). There is no significant difference in total score Geriatric Depression Score (GDS) with age group and marital status group since the p > 0.05. There is a significant relationship between gender male and female with a total score of Geriatric Depression Scale ( GDS ). The research findings will give awareness for Ministry of Health focusing on the improvement of service and facilities that affect the well-being of elderly persons and other community members, including health care service, technology, social supports, and many more. Thus it will also be promoting for comprehensive ageing in place concept.