Predictors of Depression among Institutionalized Elderly Clients

The elderly population is considered vulnerable to stress. One common stereotype of growing older is that there is a high chance of becoming depressed. Utilizing a descriptive design, data were gathered from thirty-seven (37) respondents in two geriatric facilities in Cebu. A researcher-administered questionnaire was utilized containing the demographic data, Self-esteem Scale adapted from Rosenberg, Berlin Social Support Scale adopted from Schwarzer and Schulz and Geriatric Depression Scale. Findings revealed that majority of the respondents who are institutionalized are female, single and has acquired elementary level in terms of education with a mean age of 76. Moreover, respondents had moderate self-esteem, adequate social support and a depression level of moderate to severe. Only social support showed a significant correlation with depression. It is concluded that although social support is a necessary element for the prevention of depression among institutionalized geriatric clients.