Project Outline Taylor Murphy Rasmussen University NUR2214: Nursing Care of the Older Adult Dr. Julie Alban May 25th 2021

Depression I. Introduction A. Depression is a mental health condition. It is a mood disorder in which feelings of sadness, loss, anger or frustration interfere with daily life activities (NIMH, 2015). B. Depression is one of the most common mental disorders experienced by the older generation. The mortality rate for older adults suffering with depression and/or feelings of loss or loneliness are higher than those that report satisfaction with their lives (Fiske et al., 2009). C. This in-service topic aims to increase knowledge of elderly depression, its symptoms, causes and treatment, consequences among older adult patients, and teaching methods in order to assist older adult patients affected by depression. II. Etiology/Definition/Signs/Symptoms/Treatments A. Etiology/Definition 1. The primary factors contributing to depression in older aged adults can be triggered by loss of a spouse, close friends or other loved ones, co-existing medical problems, increasing disability, cognitive impairment and social isolation (Robinson, 2020). 2. Depression has devastating physical and mental consequences such as increased risk of morbidity, increased risk of suicide, decreased cognitive, physical and social functioning, and self-neglect (Robinson, 2020).