Abstract

PEREZ MARTINEZ, Víctor T.  and  ARCIA CHAVEZ, Nora. Behavior of the biosocial factors in the depression of the older adult. Rev Cubana Med Gen Integr [online]. 2008, vol.24, n.3, pp. 0-0. ISSN 1561-3038.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in individuals aged 60 and over that were attended at the psychiatrist's office in "Ana Betancourt" Policlinic during the first four months of this year in order to detemine the influence of the biosocial factor on the depressive state of our elderly under study. Hamilton's Scale for Depression was used and a total of 149 were diagnosed depression. A biosocial assessment survey was done, and it was confirmed that depression prevailed in the elderly aged 60-69, females, widows, retired and individuals with a low educational level. In 82.6 %, depression appears simultaneously with other diseases, mainly psychomatic, as well as anxiety disorders and the abuse of substances from the psychopathological point of view. 90.6 % considered their depression was caused by some vital events that meant losses for them. Most of the older adults showed good living conditions; however, their discreet incorporation to social life and the insufficient social and family support significantly contributed to their current depression.

Keywords : Elderly; biosocial factors; depression.

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