DEPRESSION AMONG THE ELDERLY IN ERZINCAN NURSING HOME AND INFLUENTIAL FACTORS

Introduction: This research was carried out among the, 65 years of age and older individuals in the nursing home located in central Erzincan, with the aim of determining depression level and related factors. Materials and Method: Data were collected by using the descriptive form prepared by the researchers and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDO) prepared by Yesevage et al (1983) by face to face interview technique. Obtained data were evaluated by using percentage values, Kruskal Wallis, Mann Withney-U tests. Depression was found in the 55 percent of participants according to the results of the research. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was comprised of individuals at or above 65 years of age who resided in the Yuzuncu Yil Ataturk Nursing Home located in central Erzincan, Turkey. Sampling was not used in this study and it included volunteer and communicative individuals (n=60) who resided in the nursing facility in December 2006. Results: A significant correlation was found between incidence of depression and gender, satisfaction with the nursing home, having chronic disease, being visited by a relative, relationship with other individuals residing in the nursing home, and perception of health (p<0.05, p<0.01). Conclusion: Depression was found in the 55 percent of participants according to the results of the research.