Prevalence and Predictors of Depression among Elderly Residing in Residential Homes in Delta District, Egypt

Background: Depression is considered to be one of the most common emotional problems among elderly individuals. The aim of the study: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and predictors of depression among the elderly residing in residential homes in Delta District (Dakahlia, Damietta and El-Gharbia governorates). Subjects and method: A cross-sectional descriptive study included the 110 institutionalized elderly in all residential homes in Delta District. Data collection tools included a structured interview questionnaire for personal data, Geriatric Depression Scale short form (GDS-15), Berlin Social Support Scale (BSSS) and Katz and Akpom Activity of daily living scale (ADL). Results: The findings of the study indicate that the prevalence of depression in the study population (n=110) was 60 %, of whom 19.1 % had severe depression. Prevalence of depression was found to be significantly higher among those with impairment in ADL (P≤ 0.000), socially isolated (P≤ 0.000), loneliness (P≤ 0.000), lack of support system, dissatisfied with ageing process (P≤ 0.000) and not practicing religious activity regularly (P≤ 0.000). Loneliness and insomnia were statistically significant independent positive predictors of depressive symptoms scores while accepting ageing process and practicing religious activities were negative predictors of depressive symptoms scores. Conclusions: The findings suggest that depression is highly prevalent among the institutionalized elderly. In addition loneliness, impairment in ADL, lack of social interaction and support system, dissatisfaction with ageing process, lack of social and spiritual activities are associated with experience of depression among the elderly residing in residential