Prevalence of Geriatric Depression and Its Associated Risk Factors in a Rural Area of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh
Keywords:
Geriatric depression, GDS-15, elderly, Uttar Pradesh, rural healthAbstract
Background: Depression among older adults is an emerging public health concern in India, contributing significantly to morbidity and reduced quality of life. Rural elderly populations are particularly vulnerable due to social and medical determinants.
Aims & Objectives: To determine the prevalence of depression among geriatric individuals in a rural area of Meerut and to identify associated risk factors.
Material & Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the rural field practice area of LLRM Medical College, Meerut, during October–November 2019. A total of 121 individuals aged ?60 years were selected through systematic house-to-house survey after random selection of one village. Depression was assessed using the Hindi version of the Geriatric Depression Scale-15 (GDS-15). Data were analyzed using Epi Info version 7.2.3.1. Chi-square test was applied. A P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: The prevalence of depression was 38%. Education status (P = 0.013) and religion (P = 0.046) were significantly associated with depression. Chronic conditions such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and coronary artery disease showed strong associations. Common symptoms included reduced activities, feelings of emptiness, and social withdrawal.
Conclusion: A high burden of depression exists among rural elderly. Community-level screening and integration of geriatric mental health services into primary healthcare are essential.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Dr Ashok Kumar, Dr Amit Kumar, Dr Gauri Bharadwaj, Dr Rishi Sharma Sharma, Dr Tanveer Bano, Dr Anamika Sharma
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