Depression in the medically ill occurs at prevalence rates from 15% to 40% with higher rates occurring in patients with chronic, vascular, and neurologic disease. The concept of vascular depression and depression as a prodrome or early symptom of neurodegeneration is also a significant clinical factor with depression in the medically ill geriatric patient. Since death rates are among the highest for the elderly depressed, especially for those with prior history of suicidality, functional disability, substance use, and social isolation, antidepressant therapy in the medically ill depressed patient must consider the impact of the medical illness, as well as other factors such as tolerability, drug interaction, cost benefits, and compliance.
Back to S111 Spectrum of Mood Disorders in the Elderly: Emerging Concepts
Back to Satellite Symposia
Back to The Eleventh International Congress