The role of depression in rehabilitation of geriatric patients with hip fracture

The effect of depression on the rehabilitation course of 64 geriatric inpatients with hip fracture was examined. At the beginning of treatment 38.5% had a depressive disorder according to GDS-15. After 3 weeks it was still 32%, although in 7 patients the GDS-score had decreased. Additionally, 18% had a cognitive disorder (MMSE < 24). There was a correlation between depression and Barthel-Index at the start of treatment (58.4; SD 14.7 vs 48.3; SD 21.8; ANOVA; p < 0.01), Barthel-Index at discharge (86.1; SD 13.1 vs 75.0; SD 25.11; ANOVA; p < 0.01), mobility measured by timed "Up and Go" (Chi(2); p <0.01) and the number of prescribed drugs, as equivalent for severity of somatic diseases. Treatment of depression was inadequate in the beginning and at follow-up. Treated patients had a better outcome than untreated.