The prevalence of depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment in supported residential services in Victoria - a pilot study

Supported Residential Services (SRS), also known as Special Accommodation Houses, house large numbers of disabled Victorians, the majority of which are elderly. However there is currently no information available concerning the prevalence of the common psychiatric syndromes of depression and dementia, or the general levels of disability, displayed by these individuals. To address this need five SRS were randomly selected, and one SRS catering for clients of Italian background was chosen for study. Information was obtained on 108 of the 116 residents. Using the Abbreviated Mental Test Score and Geriatric Depression Score 44% demonstrated some cognitive impairment and 28% were found to exhibit significant depressive symptoms. High rates of functional and behavioural disability were detected. Neuroleptic medication was used by 37% of residents and antidepressants by 31%. There was marked discordance between supervisors' impressions and estimates of morbidity using standard scales. We conclude that there are high rates of prevalence of depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment within SRS and that policy changes to promote better recognition and care of residents with these syndromes are justified.