Diagnose depression:

To further evaluate for the possibility of depression, utilize either the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) or the PHQ-9 or simply complete a depression symptom review using SIG-E-CAPS. This author likes SIG-E-CAPS, as it is always with you, and allows you to get a baseline of symptoms that you can track for improvement in your patient. Once all symptoms are relieved, then your patient has reached remission).

Diagnosing depression in the elderly is extremely valuable.  Untreated depression can lead to increase in physical disease, disability, morbidity, mortality and most importantly decreased quality of life. Treatment for depression is highly effective. For further information on the diagnosis “stay tuned” (see below).