Common mental disorders among elderly individuals: a population-based study in Campinas, Sao Paulo State, Brazil

This study analyzed common mental disorders in the elderly according to demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, health-related behavior, and disease history. This was a cross-sectional, population-based study with a cluster sample using data from a health survey conducted in Campinas, Sao Paulo State, Brazil, in 2008. SRQ-20 was used to evaluate common mental disorders. Adjusted prevalence ratios were estimated using multiple Poisson regression. Prevalence of common mental disorders was 29.7%, and higher rates were associated with female gender, age 80 years or older, lower income, not working, sedentary lifestyle, poor self-rated health, and greater number of chronic diseases. Prevalence ratios were higher in the subscale of depressive thinking. The results provide direct backing for planning interventions focused on health of the elderly, with an emphasis on elderly that work and follow healthy lifestyles. The study highlights the need for attention by health professionals to depressive disorder in the elderly.