Co-morbid Depression and Cardiovascular Disease in the Older Adult Homecare Patient

Abstract

Depression and cardiovascular disease are leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the United States and globally. Depression significantly increases the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular disease and increases the risk of mortality in patients with cardiovascular disease. Patients receiving home healthcare are disproportionally affected by depression. Comorbid depression can occur in two time frames: Precardiac and postcardiac. It is imperative that home care patients be adequately screened and monitored for depressive symptoms. Home care patients with cardiac disease who are under treatment for depression should be carefully monitored for adherence to their medical care, drug efficacy, and safety with respect to their cardiovascular as well as mental health.