Understanding and managing depression in older people
Resource
Exclusive quality-assured RCN learning resource
Available to RCNi Plus subscribers
Applicable for any nurse with an RCNi subscription
Clinicians do not always recognise depression in older people as they attribute symptoms to the ageing process and the effects of failing health. Similarly, older people do not always appreciate that their symptoms relate to their mood. Understanding how depression affects older people can improve access to support, thereby improving overall health and quality of life. To ensure these outcomes we need a workforce with excellent communication skills that supports therapeutic relationships, promotes recognition of symptoms, and enhances assessment, diagnosis, treatment and management.
Who is this resource for?
Explains what the component is for
This resource is aimed at nurses and nursing support workers across all settings and levels of practice, including students of health, social work and care professions.
Why you should read this article
to recognise the common symptoms of depression and how they affect older people
to understand the concept of therapeutic relationships and explore how their development can support greater understanding of depression in older people
to explore depression and depressive symptoms with an older person
to learn the management options for depression with patients and to be able to adopt a person-centred approach to negotiate a support plan.
