Charity launches tool for depression diagnosis
A leading charity has launched a new tool to help GPs diagnose depression in older people.
‘Take the Challenge’ is an interactive programme designed by Age Concern, in collaboration with the Royal College of GPs, which aims to improve the diagnosis and treatment of depression in older patients.
Depression is very common in later life according to Gordon Lishman‚ director general of Age Concern.
He said: "Older people with depression often don’t see it as a real illness that is worth bothering their doctor about and are usually reluctant to talk about their feelings."
Episodes of depression can be triggered by stressful events such as loss, which older people are quite likely to suffer from.
The programme follows a fictional 84-year-old patient who visits his GP with leg pain and participants are asked to look for clues that he may be depressed and barriers that may stand in the way of his diagnosis.
It is hoped that GPs across the country will use the tool to test their current knowledge and assumptions about depression in later life.
The Insurance Helpline specialises in obtaining cover for people living with depression.
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