Helping Families with Depressed Elders: A Role for the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Depression is often difficult to diagnose in the elderly. Elders and their families may misinterpret symptoms of depression as symptoms of co- morbid medical illnesses. These illnesses may include: diabetes, stroke, heart disease, arthritis, Parkinson's or Alzheimer's disease (National Mental Health Association, 1996). The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM- IV -TR) assists the health care provider in the diagnosis of depression. These include: Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Depressive Disorder NOS, Bipolar I and II, and Mood Disorder due to General Medical Conditions. The elderly experience of depression involves loss, including: loss of interest in activities, decrease in energy, loss of control of their life, difficulty with concentration, difficulty with memory and the ability to make decisions (National Mental Health Association, 1996). In fact, one study found that depressive symptoms in the elderly are an important risk factor for developing cognitive impairment and triggering functional decline (Bassuk, Berkman, & Wypij, 1998.) This paper will concentrate on the loss of the decision -making ability in elders that is due to their diminished capacity and the knowledge and skills the Psychiatric Mental -health Nurse Practitioner (PMhNP) offers in assisting families and other providers to help depressed elders