Depression in post-CVA patients residing in long term care facilities

The purpose of this study was to identify and describe depression of non-aphasic post-CVA patients in long term care facilities. The "Beck Depression Inventory" was used to collect data on the mood level of 52 subjects in seven nursing homes. Information was gathered about their functional level in activities of daily living and use of leisure time. The results of this study indicate that more than one-third of the subjects were depressed. Depressed patients spent their time differently from non-depressed patients. No relationship was found between depression and (1) the time elapsed since the CVA, (2) the affected body side, (3) gender, (4) functional level in self-care activities or (5) social functioning. Recommendations for treatment are included.