J Korean Acad Nurs. 2013 Apr;43(2):296-303. Korean.
Published online Apr 30, 2013.
© 2013 Korean Society of Nursing Science
Original Article

Depression and Suicidal Ideation in Elders with Dementia

Jong Pil Kim,1 and Mi-Yeul Hyun2
    • 1College of Nursing, Graduate School of Inje University, Busan, Korea.
    • 2College of Nursing, Jeju National University, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, Korea.
Received October 05, 2012; Accepted February 15, 2013.

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.

Keywords
Dementia; Depression; Suicidal ideation

Tables

Table 1
Demographic Characteristics and Differences in Level of Depression & Suicidal Ideation (N=298)

Table 2
Depression and Suicidal Ideation of Participants (N=298)

Table 3
Correlations between Suicidal Ideation and Depression (N=298)

Table 4
Factors Influencing Participants' Suicidal Ideation (N=298)

Notes

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

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