Older Australian home-care clients who screen positive for depression

Study objectives: The objectives of this study were threefold. It estimated the prevalence of screening for depression among older individuals, as assessed at the commencement of homecare services or as part of a routine review, identified factors associated with a positive response to the depression screen; and, then examined the use of home-care services over a period of 12 months. Method: A prospective cohort of older home-care clients assessed once during October 2000 to June 2001 and followed for a maximum of 12 months to measure service use. Results: Almost 62% of the sample screened positive for depression. Contrary to previous studies, screening positive for depression was associated with lower service use. Conclusions: The prevalence of a positive depression screen was higher than has been previously reported. Further research is required to validate the screening tool with Australian elders.