INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH JOURNAL OF HUMANITIES,
ENGINEERING & PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES

Shalini Yadav, Dr. Manushi Srivastava, Prof. Ratan K. Srivastava

BHU

The Indian elderly population is currently the second largest in the world. Deteriorating health status in the form of psychological, social and physical health problems are all associated with aging, of which depression being the most common psychological treatable condition. Depression is rising as a major public health problem worldwide. Currently, depression is estimated to affect approximately 350 million people worldwide (Marcus, Yasamy, Ommeren, Chisholm, & Saxena, 2012). In India, there is scarcity of research on prevalence and factors influencing depression among elderly population from urban locality. This study aimed to determine the prevalence rates of depression and identify the factors associated with depression. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of depression and determine the factors associated with it in elderly Indians aged 60 years and above. Method: We conducted a cross sectional study with a sample of 410 individuals aged 60 years and above in Varanasi City. Data were collected by interview method by using A Pre Structured Interview Schedule and Patient Health Questionnaire Scale (PHQ-9). The data were analyzed by using SPSS 21 (Trial Version). Results: Estimated prevalence of Mild, Moderate, and Moderately Severe Depression in the respondents were 25.1%, 2.2%, and 1.2% respectively. Marital Status, Socio-Economic Status, and Education were found to be significantly associated with depression. Conclusion: Factors identified to be associated with depression can be used to guide interventions. They can help in formulating public health care policies to improve quality of life among elder population.