Development and validation of a brief observer-rated screening scale for depression in elderly medical patients

Abstract

this simple, short, observation-based screening scale completed by nurses is sensitive and specific in identifying depression in elderly medically ill patients, and may be a useful addition to clinical practice.

Screening for mood disorders after stroke: a systematic review of psychometric properties and clinical utility

“…Alternatively, a binary method ('not at all' = 0, 'more than usual' = 1) with a maximum of 28 points. Includes somatic symptoms (3) Observer-rated measures for people unable to selfreport their mood due to communication or cognitive impairments (n = 5): the Aphasia Depression Rating Scale (ADRS; Benaim et al 2004), the Stroke Aphasic Depression Questionnaire (SADQ; Sutcliffe & Lincoln, 1998), SADQ -Hospital version (SADQ-H; Lincoln et al 2000) and its 10-item version (SADQ-H10; Lincoln et al 2000), and the Signs of Depression Scale (SoDS; Hammond et al 2000).…”

Differential Diagnosis of Depression and Dementia

“…Table 17.1 provides a list of psychometric instruments that are commonly used to assess depression in older adults. These inventories can be useful to quantify and monitor depressive symptoms over time, yet they should [ 94 ] Zung Depression Rating Scale [ 95 ] DSM-IV Depression Checklist [ 96 ] Hamilton Depression Rating Scale [ 36 ] For use in older adults Geriatric Depression Scale [ 37 ] Geriatric Depression Scale (short form) [ 97 ] For use in patients with dementia Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia [ 98 ] Dementia Mood Assessment Scale [ 99 ] Depression Sign Scale [ 100 ] Neuropsychiatric Inventory [ 101 ] CERAD Behavior Rating Scale [ 102 ] be used as a supplement to a clinical interview. Individuals with cognitive impairment may endorse depressive symptoms, but further prompting may be required to tease apart primary depression from possible secondary effects of cognitive symptoms.…”

Use of antidepressant medication following acquired brain injury: concise guidance

“…• The Signs of Depression Screening Scale (SDSS) 13 -a simple tool based on observation of behaviour such as crying, withdrawal, or apathy which may be useful where the individual is unable to respond to either of the above (Box 3).…”

“…Signs of Depression Screening Scale (SDSS). 13 1 People who have ABI may have cognitive and communicative difficulties that limit their capacity to make informed decisions about their treatment and to give consent, or their judgement may be clouded by the depression itself. In these situations, assessment may be complex and formal psychiatric advice may be required.…”