Evaluation of the feasibility, reliability and diagnostic value of shortened versions of the geriatric depression scale.

摘要: BACKGROUND. Many scales have been developed to assess depression, but they are often too lengthy be of practical use in general practice consultations. AIM. A study was undertaken investigate the feasibility, reliability and diagnostic value geriatric depression scale its shorter versions for screening practice. METHOD. total 586 consecutive consulting patients aged 65 years over were studied nine practices west Netherlands (13 doctors). The 30-item version compared with interview schedule as a reference test. RESULTS. test indicated major six while 27 had dysthymic disorder (that is, chronic mild depression). Five per cent required help 50% questions on scale. 30-item, 15-item, 10-item four-item did not differ significantly, one-item performed no better than chance. Two items discriminated best between who depressed (P < 0.05), only one which included previously proposed 0.64, other ranging from 0.70 0.87. CONCLUSION. results different suggest or version. For purposes, smallest subset would most desirable: These may suited exclusion rather inclusion purposes. feasibility elderly people setting is discussed light study.