Geriatric Depression Scale

Todays post is part of our ongoing series, The Encompass Way. Here, we’ll go over many of the steps involved in setting up a comprehensive care plan, which helps us to provide seniors and their families a complete understanding of the available care options and helps them maneuver through the challenges of the system.

Depression among the elderly affects upwards of six million Americans. While the causes and symptoms vary case by case, it’s important to determine if an individual is suffering from depression so their care needs can be met. A routine part of Physicians Choice Private Duty’ comprehensive in-home assessment is the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). The GDS is a serious of “yes” or “no” questions that are simple enough to be used with even moderately cognitively impaired individuals.

Geriatric Depression Scale (short form)

Instructions:

Answer each questions with a “yes” or a “no.” Score 1 point for each underlined Answer. A score of 5 or more suggests depression.

1. Are you basically satisfied with your life?

Yes No

2. Have you dropped many of your activities and interests?

Yes  No

3. Do you feel that your life is empty?

Yes   No

4. Do you often get bored?

Yes  No

5. Are you in good spirits most of the time?

Yes  No

6. Are you afraid that something bad is going to happen to you?

Yes  No

7. Do you feel happy most of the time?

Yes  No

8. Do you often feel helpless?

Yes    No

9. Do you prefer to stay at home, rather than going out and doing things?

Yes    No

10. Do you feel that you have more problems with memory than most?

Yes    No

11. Do you think it is wonderful to be alive now?

Yes  No

12. Do you feel worthless the way you are now?

Yes    No

13. Do you feel full of energy?

Yes  No

14. Do you feel that your situation is hopeless?

Yes    No

15. Do you think that most people are better off than you are?

Yes    No

Download/print a copy of the GDS.

Currently serving Omaha and surrounding areas, all Encompass services are directed by registered nurses or social workers with no long-term contracts. Contact us today for help with your senior care needs.

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