SUMMARY OF CONTENT 

Depression is a mental health diagnosis that may occur in older adults but is not a normal, age-related change.   Depression can be treated.  Many older adults and their families do not understand depression or do not think they need help to address the problem.  However, depression can have a negative effect on an older adult’s life.

This module includes information and resources on the assessment of depression including an overview of depression in older adults, instruments used in assessing depression and cultural considerations.

POWERPOINT  

EXPERT INTERVIEW 

Guest Speaker Biography:

Dr. Ohaubunwa is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine, Division of Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology at Emory University School of Medicine.  She graduated with an MD/MBBS from University of Port Harcourt in Choba, Nigeria.  Dr. Ohaubunwa completed residency training at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Lagos University Teaching Hospital and Morehouse School of Medicine.  She completed her geriatrics fellowship training at the Emory University School of Medicine. 

Dr. Ohuabunwa is board certified in Internal Medicine and Geriatric Medicine. She is also board certified in Dermato-Venerology from the Medical College of Physicians of Nigeria.  She has been appointed Medical Director of the Emma Darnell Geriatric Center at Grady Hospital. Dr. Ohuabunwa’s clinical practice is based at Grady Memorial Hospital, where she is primarily involved in Geriatrics Outpatient care. Her research has focused predominantly in health services and health disparities research, care transitions, preventive geriatric medicine, and psychosocial implications of dermatological disorders. 

Dr. Ohuabunwa is a GACA awardee and is actively involved in interdisciplinary educational activities with a primary focus on hospitalization of the elderly and care transitions. Her teaching activities involve multi-level learners including PA students, medical students, medical and pharmacy residents, interdisciplinary hospital staff including nurses, case managers, social workers and pharmacists.

Podcast Topic and Location:

“A Discussion about Cultural Considerations when Assessing for Geriatric Depression”   

In this podcast, Dr. Ohuabunwa discusses assessment for geriatric depression, with specific focus on diverse older adults whom she sees in her clinical practice. Podcast can be located within the powerpoint (above) – Slide #7  or by clicking this weblink:  https://gsu.sharestream.net/ssdcms/i.do?u=a1a2f63ba0144f3

CASE STUDIES and DISCUSSION QUESTIONS  

RESOURCES

Instructor Notes – Instructor Notes – Assessment of Geriatric Depression

Presentation Handouts  – Handouts – Assessment of Geriatric Depression

References – References – Assessment of Geriatric Depression