Intervention for Depression In underserved Geriatric Populations (INDIGO)

Background Even though depression is the most common and disabling mental health problem in old age, only about 0.5% of depressed older Africans have access to minimally adequate treatment. Available treatment for depression in younger people may not be appropriate in old age because of multiple co-occuring social and health problems which make depression worse. We now wish to develop a depression treatment package suitable for older people in the specific context of Nigeria. Approach We will adapt a treatment guide known to be effective for depression in younger people to the specific needs of older adults.The adaption will be informed by the views of patients, their families, caregivers, healthcare providers and administrators. It will also leverage on available social and community networks that are of potential benefit to the depressed older person. Impact The study will ensure better access to context-appropriate depression treatment for older people in Nigeria/sub-Saharan Africa