Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) Form

The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) Form is a specialized depression screening tool developed specifically for the elderly population. Unlike general depression inventories, the GDS avoids somatic symptom questions that may overlap with normal aging or medical comorbidities, focusing instead on cognitive and affective symptoms of depression. The simple yes/no response format reduces cognitive burden and makes this instrument accessible for older adults, including those with mild cognitive impairment.

This form includes the full set of GDS screening items covering life satisfaction, mood, energy levels, social withdrawal, hopelessness, and feelings of worthlessness. It incorporates a scoring section with established cutoff thresholds that differentiate between normal, mild depression, and moderate-to-severe depression. Additional fields capture relevant medication history, recent life events, and current social support systems that inform clinical decision-making.

Widely used in geriatric medicine, primary care, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and home health settings, the GDS is recommended by geriatric care guidelines for routine depression screening in adults aged 65 and older. This form facilitates consistent documentation and supports timely intervention, helping providers address a condition that is both common and often underdiagnosed in the elderly population.