Here's some slightly depressing news: Older people with one or more chronic conditions or health concerns are at high risk for depression, according to a new study by AARP Services, Inc. and UnitedHealthcare.
The study surveyed more than 9,300 people ages 65 and older living in 10 states and enrolled in AARP Medicare Supplement plans insured by UnitedHealthcare. The study results appear in the September issue of the International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.
Nearly 25 percent of respondents reported evidence of depressive symptoms. According to the survey findings, having depressive symptoms was associated with significantly lower quality of life for all eight quality of life components measured. For example, compared to those who did not report depressive symptoms, the greatest impact of depressive symptoms was on social functioning and the ability to handle emotional roles.
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