Depression in the older adult is frequently under-diagnosed and under-treated in the health care setting resulting in increased mortality in the elderly. When the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) is administered in combination with other diagnostic evaluations, however, it provides a reliable, valid, and cost-effective depression screening for the elderly. This paper provides psychometric evidence of the efficacy of the GDS, outlines the magnitude of the problems faced among healthcare professionals in assessing depression in the elderly, and encourages the incorporation of the GDS in standard assessment procedures of the older adult.

Since its inception, the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) has been a source of controversy in American politics. Its enactment allowed leave for employees and their family members for serious medical conditions, while maintaining their employment status. This study is an exploratory look into the utilization and effectiveness of the FMLA for 45 caregivers of children with chronic illnesses. Results of a survey indicated that being female (p <.01), unmarried (p <.05), and having an annual income less than 35,000 dollars (p <.001) have significant negative effects on the eligibility, utilization, and effectiveness of the FMLA for caregivers of ill children. The authors argue for improved dissemination of FMLA eligibility to employees and employers, and a reexamination of the eligibility criteria.