Depression Among the Elderly

In today’s world Depression is a burning issue. Both men and women of all ages are becoming victims of such a disorder. In usual terms, Depression seems to be associated with low socio-economic status. Thus, apart from other factors Depression occurs mostly due to economic scarcity. However, the present study which has been done among one of the most affluent groups (Marwari Community) of India as well as the World, reveals differently. The Marwaris are mostly engaged in large-scale business activities and most of them are very prosperous and wealthy. Present research work reveals that in spite of such economic abundance the incidence of depression among them is on the rise. Therefore, Depression has multiple dimensions and various factors behind it and is thus uncontrollable. This book is based on a study among the Marwari elderly residing in metropolitan city like Kolkata and sub-urban areas of West Bengal. The book is divided into six chapters. Chapter 1 describes the problem of Depression and its social origin. Chapter 2 deals with the Theories of Ageing. Chapter 3 discusses the major assumptions about depression Chapter 4 describes the socio-economic and demographic profile. Chapter 5 is divided into two sub-parts: (a) Way of Looking and (b) Detailed Discussion. Final chapter reveals the gravity of the problem and its present condition with some suggestive measures.