Document Type

Thesis

Publication Date

2013

Disciplines

Nursing

Abstract

As the older adult population grows, depression rates are also on the rise. This is especially evident among American veterans, who experience a depression incidence close to 30%, making it one of the most common diagnoses treated within the Veterans Health Administraiton (Hankin, Spiro, Miller et al, as cited in Cully, Zimmer, Khan & Petersen, 2008).

The purpose of this study is to identify key demographic variables associated with depression among older male veterans. The results could help improve patterns of care, hopefully improving the management of depression. The retrospective descriptive study uses existing medical record data to identify patterns of factors commonly occurring in veterans with depression. Demographic variables, depression screening scores, and patterns of International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems 9th Revision (ICD9 codes) are analyzed for patterns that can improve care. Descriptive findings and relevant correlations are reported with recommendations to improve care for older adult male veterans diagnosed with depression.

Comments

Faculty advisors: Kathy Twohy, Denise Meijer.

Reader: Lindsay Anderson

Download

Included in

Nursing Commons

Share

COinS