Prevalence and Predictors of depression in the elderly population.
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Prevalence and predictor of depression in the elderly population in acute medical settings, A cross -sectional study
IRAS ID
364645
Contact name
Aiman Balouch
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 2 months, 1 days
Research summary
Depression is a common but often overlooked mental health condition in older adults, particularly those admitted to hospital for acute medical illnesses. Physical illness, loss of independence, and reduced social contact can make elderly patients more vulnerable to depression, which may slow recovery, prolong hospital stays, and reduce quality of life.
This study aims to find out how common depression is among elderly inpatients and to identify which factors increase the risk of developing it. These may include medical conditions, medications, and social circumstances.
The study will be conducted at Scunthorpe General Hospital over a period of 4–6 months. Around 200 patients aged 65 years and older admitted to acute medical wards will be invited to take part. After giving consent, each participant will complete a short questionnaire called the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), which screens for symptoms of depression. Basic details such as age, gender, medical conditions, and level of social support will also be recorded.
Participation will take approximately 10–15 minutes, is entirely voluntary, and will not affect medical care. If a participant’s responses suggest moderate or severe depression, their healthcare team will be informed so that appropriate support can be provided.
The results will help healthcare professionals understand how common depression is among hospitalized older adults and identify those most at risk. Findings may inform better screening, early intervention, and integrated care strategies for the elderly population in acute medical settings.
Study Design
This is an observational, cross-sectional study carried out at a single site — Scunthorpe General Hospital. It involves collecting data from eligible patients at one point in time during their hospital stay. No intervention or experimental treatment is involved.
Condition Being Studied
Depression in elderly patients admitted to acute medical wards.
The study will explore both the prevalence (how common it is) and the predictors (which factors increase risk) of depression in this group.
Duration and Participant Involvement
Each participant will be involved only during their hospital admission. Completing the questionnaire and related data collection will take about 10–15 minutes. The study itself will run for approximately 4–6 months after receiving approvals.
Funding and Sponsorship
This study is locally sponsored and conducted under NHS governance at Scunthorpe General Hospital, North Lincolnshire and Goole NHS Foundation Trust. No external or commercial funding is involved.
REC name
East Midlands - Leicester Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/EM/0059
Date of REC Opinion
12 Mar 2026
REC opinion
Unfavourable Opinion