[Prognosis of depression in the elderly]

The prognosis of depression, when the depression is diagnosed, is rather similar in the elderly and in younger adults. Recovery, after the initial episode or after one relapse or recurrence, is observed in about two thirds of the patients. However, depression increases the vulnerability of the elderly and is associated with an elevation of mortality, mainly due to the occurrence of somatic pathologies, which could be facilitated by the depression. Relapses, recurrences, chronicity and absence of therapeutic response are associated with inadequate treatment or follow-up. The prognosis of depression in elderly people requires a systematic diagnostic research and an appropriate treatment. The importance of follow-up and of a psychotherapeutic approach associated with antidepressant drugs should be emphasized.