MALNUTRITION AND DEPRESSION IN MARGINALIZED ELDERLY PEOPLE IN FARS PROVINCE

Background and Aim: During the aging, depression prevalence increases due to various reasons. While depression often misdiagnosed and rarely treated appropriately. In older adult it can result in malnutrition or dehydration. Malnutrition increase the vulnerability to diseases and mental disorder. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between malnutrition and depression in the elderly 60 years and older.Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 220 elderly people in the marginalized zone of Shiraz and Jahrom cities in 2017. Samples were selected through multi-stage cluster random sampling. Demographic Questionnaire, Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) and Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) were completed by interview. Data were analyzed by Pearson correlation coefficient and ANOVA.Results: The average age of participants was 8+ 6/70 years. 45% of them were men, 25% were exposed to malnourished and 23% were depressed. The results of ANOVA showed a significant relationship between depression and malnutrition (000 /.). Also, Pearson correlation coefficient showed a positive correlation between depression and malnutrition (p =. / 01, r = 49).Conclusion: Depression in the elderly can be accompanied by a deterioration in the nutritional status of the elderly. Given the extended effects of depression and malnutrition on the health and well-being of the elderly, the importance of integrating cares into the aging period is evident

Keywords:

Depression , Malnutrition , Elderly , Marginalized Elderly