Use of the Binary Beck Depression Inventory in Nursing Homes

Abstract

The measurement of depression in long-term care facilities (LTC's) has always presented a challenge. Despite the generally solid psychometric properties of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), it has not been used in these facilities with any consistency, as it is often viewed as too confusing for many older patients. In this study we used an adapted version of this instrument, the Binary BDI, with nursing home referrals. We attempted to replicate a previous study with 192 additional participants. We divided participants into three groups: Dementia, Major Depressive Disorder, and Adjustment Disorder. MANOVA analysis of data from the Binary BDI, the Mood Scale and MMSE revealed that the Binary BDI differentiated the MDD group from the others. We identify critical items on the scale and discuss the use of this scale in long-term care facilities.

Key Words:

• Beck
• depression
• assessment
• elderly