Evaluation of Need

Statistics show that as many as one-fifth of elderly people seen in primary care today have depression. Although the elderly only represent 13 percent of the population, they represent 16-20 percent of the nation's suicide rate, with the highest rates seen in males 80 years and older. Among individuals who committed suicide, 70 percent saw their doctors within 30 days of their death.

These individuals are being misdiagnosed and mistreated by their doctors and care professionals. Many seniors have reported feeling embarrassed or even scared to ask for help for fear of the stigma that comes with mental illness. In order for these individuals to find relief, reform is needed in the way we treat depression.


Depression is different for older adults. Research has shown that depression is more common in people who also have other illnesses or whose function becomes limited. Since 80 percent of older adults have at least one chronic health condition, the elderly are at a higher risk of depression. Because the risk is so high, it is imperative that doctors and health care professionals pay special attention to those exhibiting signs of depression and get them into a treatment program as soon as possible. 

Since depression is different in older adults, the treatment options should also be different. Current treatment methods include group therapy, supportive counseling, and herbal remedies. The most common form of treatment is the use of antidepressant medication. Instead of pumping these individuals with more and more pills, I propose a lesser used treatment option; memoir therapy.