Factor Structure of the Geriatric Depression Scale in Cognitively Impaired Older Adults |
| |
| Authors: | James R. Hall PhD Tommy E. Davis MPH |
| |
| Affiliation: | 1. University of North Texas and University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth , Fort Worth, Texas, USA jhall@hsc.unt.edu;3. University of North Texas and University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth , Fort Worth, Texas, USA |
| |
| Abstract: | This study explores the factor structure of the 30-item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) obtained from a sample of elderly adults who were diagnosed with some level of cognitive impairment. Principle components analysis obtained a four-factor solution utilizing all 30 GDS items. The derived factors were labeled Dysphoria, Meaninglessness, Apathy, and Cognitive Impairment. Although differences in factor structure were noted, some commonalities exist between this and former factor solutions conducted on healthy elderly populations. Further validation of this factor structure in the cognitively impaired elderly may provide another point of validation during clinical assessment and research when attempting to distinguish between geriatric depression, the onset of dementia, or a combination of these conditions. |
| |
| Keywords: | assessment dementia depression differential diagnosis |
|
|
