Community-based interventions to address depression in older adults: a systematic scoping review

Depression is a prevalent psychiatric disorder among adults aged 65 and older, significantly impacting their well-being. With an aging global population, effective community-based interventions are vital to combat this issue. This review provides an overview of the characteristics of community-based interventions addressing depression in the elderly, identifying knowledge gaps by synthesizing current data. The search strategy entails a systematic database search. Results show that interventions have been effective in reducing depressive symptoms and enhancing social interaction, mainly those that include physical activity, social engagement, or mental health education. Success depends on factors such as participant engagement, adherence, and the sociocultural environment. Addressing these barriers requires a comprehensive understanding of local contexts and innovative service delivery approaches. Improving recruitment by overcoming cultural and logistical challenges could expand the reach and accessibility of these programs, thereby increasing their overall impact on older adults mental health and quality of life.