Detect Depression, Prevent Suicide in the Elderly

The Late-Life Depression Clinic at the University of Pittsburgh is one of three Intervention Research Centers to launch PROSPECT*, a study to measure whether intervention by on-staff depression specialists can help depressed seniors get proper treatment and reduce suicide rates among the older population. The study is funded by the National Institute of Mental Health. Report from The NIH Word on Health, June 2000, http://www.gov/news/WordonHealth/jun2000/story01.htm.

Depression Linked to Falls and Injuries

The National Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one in every three people age 65 and older fall at least once annually. Falls occur because of factors associated with aging including declining hearing and sight, poor balance and coordination, declining strength, slowed reactions, long term illnesses, and the use of multiple medications.

When an older person suffers a fall or reoccurring falls, there are a number of associated traumatic psychosocial consequences. The threat of impending falls can alter the person's self-image and create feelings of increasing frailty and incompetence leading to apprehension, anxiety, and heightened vulnerability. Many older people become depressed, especially as their mobility and sense of freedom are compromised.

Falls are preventable through education of the individual, assessment, intervention, rehabilitation, and evaluation. The Florida Injury Prevention Program for Seniors (FLIPS) of the Florida Department of Elder Affairs uses advocacy, education, outreach, and research to prevent falls in Florida's older population. For more information contact DOEA: 850-414-2000.

Contributed by:
Judith H. Wallace, M.Ed.

© 2002, Florida Coalition for Optimal Mental Health & Aging