Geriatric Depression Scale

What exactly is the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS)?

Originally Geriatric depression scale (short form GDS)is a report measure of depression in which older adults respond to 30 questions by using yes or no for each question to. At first, the Geriatric depression scale was 30 question report but most of the patients were having difficulty to complete all the questions. To overcome this a 15-item version was developed.

These 15 questions are co-related with the symptoms of depression in which 10 questions indicate the presence of depression when answered positively and 5 question indicates depression if answered negatively.

GDS-15 versions comprise the following questions:

1. Are you basically satisfied with your life?
2. Have you dropped many of your activities and interests?
3. Do you feel that your life is empty?
4. Do you often get bored?
5. Are you in good spirits most of the time?
6. Are you afraid that something bad is going to happen to you?
7. Do you feel happy most of the time?
8. Do you often feel helpless?
9. Do you prefer to stay at home, rather than going out and doing new things?
10. Do you feel you have more problems with memory than most?
11. Do you think it is wonderful to be alive now?
12. Do you feel pretty worthless the way you are now?
13. Do you feel full of energy?
14. Do you feel that your situation is hopeless?
15. Do you think that most people are better off than you are?

Reference: http://www.npcrc.org/files/news/geriatric_depression_scale_long_form.pdf

These questions are co-related with the symptoms of depression and used to see the severity of depression in a patient.

Interpretation of GDS

In every version of depression scale each question scores 1 point on every positive answer in the screening of depressive status. The patient has to answer with yes or no and the end result will show the severity of depression:

• Score Below 5 – this score shows that there is no depressive status found, however, the person should be observed further to check for signs about depression and their evolution.
• A score between 5 and 10 – this score shows mild depressive status in the patient. Consider and refer the patient to a specialist for proper consultation.
• A score above 10 – this score shows the severe depression status in the patient. The patient might be thinking of self-harm and suicide which means the person needs to be referred to a specialist for proper consultation.

About GDS calculator

Our calculator allows user to complete their reports to check their reports anywhere and anytime. Our GDS calculator is easy to use and used by many individuals worldwide.

All you need is to answer these simple questions and the results will show in seconds to you according to the questions answered. You can use the score further to know whether you need to see a specialist or not. You can perform this test regularly free of cost.

Furthermore, you can use our Depression test tool to further examine the depression severity.