WORLD JOURNAL OF ADVANCE
HEALTHCARE RESEARCH

*Harith Jalil Abdul Rahman and Mohammed Assad Ibrahim Al Bayaty

ABSTRACT

Background: Depression significantly impacts the quality of life in elderly individuals, particularly those with diabetes, due to a bidirectional relationship that exacerbates both conditions. Elderly diabetic patients face challenges like poor glycemic control and higher complications, emphasizing the need for integrated mental health care in elderly clinics. The study aims to investigate the prevalence of depression among old diabetic patients in Baghdad, the influence of diabetes and comorbidities on depression, and the feasibility of regular depression screening in elderly depression patients. Method: This cross-sectional study uses the GDS short form to assess depression among 100 elderly diabetic patients aged over 60 in outpatient clinics. Data collection includes demographic details and depression severity, analyzed via chi-square and descriptive statistics. A pilot study ensures questionnaire refinement before a three-month data collection period. Results: The study revealed significant associations between depression severity (GDS scales) and various factors among elderly diabetic patients. Females, widowed individuals, those living alone, and lower education levels were linked to higher depression severity. Comorbidities, surgical history, hypertension, longer diabetes duration, and mixed treatments also correlated with severe depression. Education and occupation showed protective effects, with higher education and employment associated with lower depression severity. Conclusion: The study reveals higher depression severity among elderly diabetic patients with factors like female gender, widowhood, comorbidities, surgeries, and prolonged diabetes. It underscores the need for comprehensive mental health care in elderly clinics to enhance patient well-being.