Depression in older adults with cancer

What is it about?

This study looked at data from the Heath and Retirement Study from older adults, with and without a history of cancer. All those with a first diagnosis of cancer in 1998-2000 were included in the study together with a representative subsample of all noncancer cases. Those with a history of cancer and no spouse/partner in the home had higher likelihood of depression than those with no history of cancer. Also, those with a history of cancer and lower life-expectancy had a higher likelihood of depression symptoms than those with no history of cancer. Women with a cancer history and low social-support had the highest likelihood of depression symptoms. I concluded that assessment and intervention in the “survivorship” phase of cancer should target older adults with higher levels of depression early in the cancer experience, those with no partner present in home, those with lower life-expectancy, and women with low social support.

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