Depression among the elderly: a population-based study in Southern Brazil.

This study assessed the prevalence of depression and associated factors among Brazilian elderly in Arroio Trinta, Southern Brazil. During home visits, a questionnaire was administered to all people aged 60 or older living in the municipality in 2013. The Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form (GDS-15) was used. The χ 2 test was performed to compare proportions and Poisson regression with robust adjustment of variance in the multivariate analysis. The effect measure applied was the prevalence ratio. The prevalence of depression among 552 (out of 568) elderly studied was 20.4% (95%CI 17.3 - 23.8). An adjusted analysis conducted according to a predefined hierarchical model showed higher prevalence ratios of depression among females, single people, those with lower household income, smokers, and those who had been hospitalized in the 12 months preceding the interview. Engaging in leisure-time activities such as dances and religious activities or regular physical activity were protective factors for depression. Results from this study demonstrate the need of proper treatment and management of this condition at the community level.