Implementation and evaluation of a depression care model for homebound elderly.

Depression affects 14% to 46% of homebound elderly and is costly and disabling. Home health agencies face significant challenges delivering effective depression care. In response, an evidence-based depression care model was developed in a home health agency. Twelve-month program evaluation data demonstrated a 2.99 mean reduction in depression scores (P < .0001) on the Geriatric Depression Scale and confirmed that a clinically effective, operationally feasible, and financially sustainable depression care model can be implemented in home health care.

Duke Scholars

Author Eleanor Schildwachter McConnell School of Nursing