Depression

Question 1

Biological causes of depression in the elderly (4)

Answer 1

Chronic pain
L term conditions
Recent physical illness
Meds

Question 2

Psychological causes of depression in the elderly (3)

Answer 2

Previous Hx MH condition
Loss
High level independence

Question 3

Social causes of depression in the elderly (4)

Answer 3

Social isolation
Widowed
Not able to drive/poor mobility
Elderly neighbours

Question 4

PS Depression in the elderly (6)

Answer 4

Reduction in activity 
Depressive and suicidal thoughts 
Agitation 
Psychosomatic complaints 
Poor memory
Self neglect

Question 5

RF - suicide in the elderly - historical (2)

Answer 5

Prev Hx attempted suicide

FHx suicide

Question 6

RF - suicide in the elderly - static (4)

Answer 6

Male
Older
Lives alone
Socially isolated

Question 7

DDx depression

Answer 7

Hypothyroidism
Anaemia 
Hypercalcaemia 
Dementia 
PD

Question 8

Biological Mx depression

Answer 8

SSRI’s = 1st line
Anxiolytics
Hypnotics (Z meds)

Question 9

Ix depression (6)

Answer 9

FBC
U+E
LFT
Ca
TFT
B12

Question 10

SE SSRIs in the elderly (3)

Answer 10

GI upset
Haemorrhage
Hyponatraemia

Question 11

Psychological Mx depression

Answer 11

Rx to CBT/group therapy
Supportive listening
CPN support

Question 12

Social Mx depression (7)

Answer 12

Support network 
Carer stress 
Meaningful activity 
Exercise 
Support groups 
Social services Rx 
Carers allowence