Depression is a common mental disorder that presents with depressed mood, loss of interest, pleasure, feeling of guilt or low self worth, disturbed sleep/appetite, low energy and poor concentration.
According to WHO, these problems can become chronic or recurrent and lead to substantial impairment in an individual’s ability to take care of his/her everyday responsibilities.
Community based mental health studies have revealed that the point prevalence of depressive disorders amongst the geriatric population in India varies between 13-25%.
According to WHO remaining active means maintaining one’s physical , social and mental potential throughout the entire lifecycle, allowing the involvement of elderly in social, economic, cultural, spiritual and civic activities.