Study of Depression Among Elderly Persons in a Rural Community in Plateau State

Depression is the most common mental health disorder among older adults globally, yet its prevalence and risk factors in elderly Nigerian rural populations remain inadequately documented. This study assessed the prevalence of depressive symptoms and associated factors among elderly persons (aged 60 and above) in a rural community in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State, North Central Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive design was adopted, with 180 elderly persons recruited through community-based systematic sampling. The Geriatric Depression Scale-15 was used to screen for depressive symptoms. A structured questionnaire collected sociodemographic data, health status, social support, and bereavement history. Results showed a depression prevalence of 38.9 percent, with significant depressive symptoms present in 29.4 percent and mild symptoms in 9.5 percent. The strongest risk factors were social isolation (OR 4.2, p < 0.001), chronic physical illness (OR 3.1, p < 0.001), recent bereavement (OR 2.7, p < 0.01), and low family support (OR 2.4, p < 0.01). Female elderly persons showed higher depression rates than males. None of the depressed individuals had received any formal mental health support. Awareness of available psychological services was absent in 94.4 percent of the sample. The study recommends community-based mental health outreach programmes, social support group formation, community health worker mental health screening training, and elder-focused counselling services through Plateau State primary healthcare facilities. Keywords: depression, elderly persons, rural community, Plateau State, geriatric mental health