"When the Golden Years Are Blue": Changes in Depressive Symptoms Over Time Among Older Adults Newly Admitted to Long-Term Care Facilities

This study investigated the prevalence of depressive symptoms and diagnoses among older adults newly admitted to long-term care facilities (LTCFs) in Ontario, Canada. Using anonymous cross-sectional and longitudinal Minimum Data Set 2.0 (MDS 2.0) assessments (N = 63,095), changes in depressive symptoms and predictors of depression following admission to institutional care were examined. Depressive symptoms were present in 54.3 cases per 100 residents at initial assessment, increasing to 60.8 cases per 100 residents by follow-up. Although depressive symptoms worsened, approximately 30% of residents showed moderate to significant improvement following LTCF admission. Results are discussed in the context of the MDS 2.0 and interRAI Mood CAP as a resource for LTCF care staff.