Detailed Description
The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) measures depression in the
elderly and has been extensively used with older adults. It was
specifically designed as a basic screening measure for an older
population, which requires items that are easier to read and understand.
Items are simple sentences, usually less than 15 words each.
Typically administered by clinicians, researchers, or trained
personnel, psychiatric expertise is not necessary.
"Yes" items are summed. Higher scores indicate more
depression. The simple, one-page report reflects the responses
suggesting the presence of depression.
Norms
| Reading level |
Flesch-Kincaid grade level of 4.1 |
| Norms |
Designed for use in a geriatric population |
| Estimated completion time |
30 yes/no questions / approximately 10-15 minutes |
| Scales |
Depression |
When to administer this assessment
Can easily be administered at a routine, annual examination and
re-administered as needed, based upon results or patient's condition.
(Depression, anxiety, and decreased socialization often accompany
pain and can make management difficult.)
Author information
Dr. T. L. Brink and Dr. Jerome A. Yesavage, Terence L. Rose, Owen
Lum, Virginia Huang, Michael Adey, Von Otto Leirer
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