Geriatric Depression Scale
A questionnaire to screen for depression in geriatric populations
Questions
About
The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) was developed as a basic screening tool to assess for depression in older adults.
The GDS uses a simple yes/no response format and is available in 30-, 15-, and 5-item versions though the 15-item version is offered here.
The 15-item version (sensitivity 81 percent, specificity 78 percent) performs better than the 30-item version for identifying late-life depression in primary care.
Although GDS is frequently used by specialists in Geriatric, the PHQ-9 has been shown to perform as well or better in geriatric patients, including those who are cognitively impaired or living in nursing homes.
References
Brink TL, Yesavage JA, Lum O, Heersema P, Adey MB, Rose TL.
Yesavage JA, Brink TL, Rose TL, Lum O, Huang V, Adey MB, Leirer VO.
Sheikh JI, Yesavage JA.
Sheikh JI, Yesavage JA, Brooks JO, III, Friedman LF, Gratzinger P, Hill RD, Zadeik A, Crook T.
By using this site you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to be bound by our terms of use and privacy policy. All content and tools are for educational use only, are not meant to be a substitute for professional advice and should not be used for medical diagnosis and/or medical treatment.