High depression levels in elderly living at home
Over 50% of Commonwealth funded community care clients report experiencing mild or severe depression, according to a Baptcare study launched in Melbourne.
The ‘Predictors Influencing the Change in Health Status of Elderly in Community Care’ (PITCH) study is the first of its kind in Australia.
It followed 300 Baptcare clients on Commonwealth funded care packages (CACPs, EACH and EACHD packages) over a 12 month period.
The study examined the areas of physical and mental health, social and community service interaction, and the level of strain on informal carers.
Baptcare’s CEO, Jeff Davey, said he hoped the study would be used to shape the future of community care in Australia.
“It is anticipated that the PITCH study will be used by service providers, consumers and funding agencies across the country, to inform the delivery of community aged care packages, and to develop strategies to improve the health related quality of life of those receiving community packages.”
Over the one year period, 44% of clients experienced a major change of health status and high levels of co-morbidity were documented.
Cardiovascular was the most common chronic condition among survey participants.
“This can help to plan for addressing these health related needs in a more effective manner.”
The study also confirmed existing concerns about carer strain.
More than 60% of participants had an informal carer, but close to two thirds of carers recorded high levels of carer strain.
