This document discusses the treatment of depression in the elderly. It notes that while healthy older adults are not at greater risk of depression than younger adults, risk factors in the elderly include multiple losses, medical illness, and a history of previous depression. Depression is common in elderly patients with medical conditions like stroke, cancer, and heart disease. Treatment includes addressing any underlying medical causes or drugs that may be contributing, starting with low doses of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors which have fewer side effects in older patients, and considering psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy, or mood stabilizers if needed. Close monitoring for side effects and compliance is important when medicating elderly patients.