Psychiatry / Mental Health A

Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15)

15-item self-report screening tool for depression in older adults (>65 years). Avoids somatic items that confound depression screening in the elderly. Short form of original 30-item GDS.

Are you basically satisfied with your life?*

Have you dropped many of your activities and interests?*

Do you feel that your life is empty?*

Do you often get bored?*

Are you in good spirits most of the time?*

Are you afraid that something bad is going to happen to you?*

Do you feel happy most of the time?*

Do you often feel helpless?*

Do you prefer to stay at home, rather than going out and doing new things?*

Do you feel you have more problems with memory than most?*

Do you think it is wonderful to be alive now?*

Do you feel pretty worthless the way you are now?*

Do you feel full of energy?*

Do you feel that your situation is hopeless?*

Do you think that most people are better off than you are?*

Score interpretation

Normal — No Depression Indicated 0–4

GDS-15 0-4. No significant depressive symptoms.

→ No immediate action. Reassess at next routine appointment. Ensure social support and activity levels are adequate in older adults.

Mild Depression 5–8

GDS-15 5-8. Mild depressive symptoms. Follow-up evaluation indicated.

→ Explore psychosocial stressors. Review medications (beta-blockers, corticosteroids, opioids). Lifestyle review (activity, social engagement). Consider talking therapy. Reassess in 4-6 weeks.

Moderate Depression 9–11

GDS-15 9-11. Moderate depression. Treatment recommended.

→ Psychiatry/psychogeriatrics referral. Consider antidepressants (SSRIs preferred in elderly). Assess for cognitive impairment (MMSE/MoCA). Risk assessment for self-harm.

Severe Depression 12–15

GDS-15 12-15. Severe depressive symptoms.

→ Urgent psychiatry review. Risk assessment — suicidal ideation, self-neglect, capacity. Consider inpatient admission if at risk. Combination of medication and psychotherapy indicated.

Interpretation bands for the GDS-15. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.

References

Sheikh JI, Yesavage JA. Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS): recent evidence and development of a shorter version. Clin Gerontol. 1986;5(1/2):165-173.
Yesavage JA, et al. Development and validation of a geriatric depression screening scale. J Psychiatr Res. 1982;17(1):37-49.

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

Drugs

Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.

Score interpretation

References

Related