Journal List > J Korean Acad Nurs > v.43(2) > 1002910

Kim and Hyun: Depression and Suicidal Ideation in Elders with Dementia

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of depression and suicidal ideation in elders with dementia and to identify factors influencing their suicidal ideation.

Methods

A descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted from February to March, 2011. The participants were 298 older adults whose MMSE-KC score was 15 to 23. Collected Data were analyzed using t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients, and stepwise multiple regression.

Results

According to the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) classification criteria, 86.2% of the elders in this study exhibited depression (GDS=5), and 31.5% manifested severe depression. The mean score of suicidal ideation was 5.70 (range 0-20). The risk factors for suicidal ideation were depression, suicidal attempt experience, present location for care, and activities of daily living.

Conclusion

The results of this study can be utilized in the development of suicide prevention programs for older adults with dementia. In particular, depression should be screened and managed to reduce suicidal ideation of older adults with dementia.

Figures and Tables

Table 1
Demographic Characteristics and Differences in Level of Depression & Suicidal Ideation (N=298)
jkan-43-296-i001

*Excluding missing data; VN=Visiting nursing; PD=Parietal dependence; a,bDuncan test.

Table 2
Depression and Suicidal Ideation of Participants (N=298)
jkan-43-296-i002

GDSSF-K=Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form-Korea.

Table 3
Correlations between Suicidal Ideation and Depression (N=298)
jkan-43-296-i003
Table 4
Factors Influencing Participants' Suicidal Ideation (N=298)
jkan-43-296-i004

Adj. R2=Adjusted R square.

Notes

This manuscript is based on a part of the first author's master's thesis from Jeju National University.

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