Citation

Fisher KM, Copenhaver V. J. Gerontol. Nurs. 2006; 32(9): 26-33.

Affiliation

Drexel University, College of Nursing and Health Professions, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Healio)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

16972606

Abstract

This pilot study assessed the prevalence of mental health disorders and cognitive impairment among rural older adults living in a public housing facility and compared screening tools in this setting. Interviews were completed with 20 of the 38 residents older than 60 years. Survey instruments included the following: Primary Care Evaluation of Mental Disorders (PRIME-MD), Medical Outcomes 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE), and Global Assessment Scale (GAS). Depressive disorders were identified in 50% (n = 10) of participants and included major depression (25%), minor depression (20%), and dysthymia (5%). Cognitive impairment was identified in 15% (n = 3) of participants. Comparative analysis of instruments administered showed high correlations among the PRIME-MD, MADRS, GAS, and SF-36. The screening instruments identified for depression and cognitive impairment can be used reliably by nurses in this setting.

Language: en