ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews an extensive literature on the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) exists and much of it. It provides additional information about using the GDS as a depression screener and feedback regarding findings and using these findings to guide treatment approaches. The development of the GDS was motivated by the perception that existing self-report measures of late-life depression were lacking. Consistency and reliability estimates for the GDS were impressive. The GDS has been found to have good discriminant validity with older adults who are depressed, physically ill, and treated with cognitive behavioral therapy. The medication component of treatment can be provided by the patient's primary care physician or a psychiatrist, while psychotherapy can be delivered by a qualified psychotherapist. In addition to screening for depressive symptoms in older adults, the GDS can be used to monitor a patient's progress in treatment.
