ABSTRACT
Many studies have shown that older people with significant physical
illness are considerably more likely to have important depressive symp-
toms than those fortunate enough to be physically healthy. Given the
very high prevalence of physical ill health in older people (particularly
very old people), this association, although no stronger than is found in
younger people, is an important one. A further reason for being mindful
of physical illness when an older person presents with depressive symp-
toms is that the co-morbid physical illness may be an important
consideration in formulating a management plan. There is also evidence
that depression may worsen the prognosis of coexistent physical illness
and, equally, that depression may itself be more treatment resistant in
the presence of significant physical morbidity.
