NHS ageism means elderly people with depression far less likely to be referred for therapy

NHS ageism means elderly people with depression far less likely to be referred for therapy NHS ageism means GPs are failing to properly treat depression in the elderly, research suggests. Experts said older patients were far less likely to be referred for psychological therapies, and more likely to just be given pills.

The study by University College London and the University of Bristol found that almost four in ten people over the age of 75 are suffering some signs of depression.

But the research found older patients were far less likely than younger ones to be referred for therapy, with GPs often assuming depression was a natural consequence of old age. The Daily Telegraph

See also:

• Management of depression and referral of older people to psychological therapies: a systematic review of qualitative studies British Journal of General Practice
• Too many older people given 'antidepressants instead of therapy' The Guardian