Recognising the pressing demand within our communities for enhanced Mental Health resources, Health Pathways has developed two new pathways to further enrich our Mental Health suite. These additions, namely Depression in Older Adults and Antidepressants for Older Adults, are carefully shaped to promote the well-being of our aging population. Statistics indicate that up to half of aged care residents along with 5% of older individuals living in the community, experience depression. Implementing early interventions for depression management can significantly contribute to improved morbidity outcomes and an enhanced quality of life.
The Health Pathways for Antidepressant Use and Depression in Older Adults are built on best-practice guidelines. These pathways provide valuable assistance to clinicians in effectively managing depression and ensuring the appropriate utilization of antidepressants. To cater to the unique needs of South Australia, localized referral resources are available. These resources aid clinicians in directing patients towards additional care options, such as psychiatric referrals as well as offering links to expert pharmacist advice through The Drug and Therapeutics Information Service (DATIS) and the GP Psychiatry Support Line. This expert guidance proves particularly beneficial when selecting medications for patients dealing with co-morbidities or polypharmacy.
“The newly localised Antidepressants for Older Persons pathway comprehensively outlines considerations when prescribing these medications, through a primary care lens. It discusses the general principles of antidepressant use in older persons, important risks and side effects of these medications, with detailed information about each of the commonly used antidepressants and their specific profiles. An important pathway that complements the new Depression in Older Persons pathway.” Dr Anna Billington, GP Clinical Editor
Please see below the links to the newly launched pathways:
For more information please visit our Project Site or contact the team via enquiries@sahealthpathways.com.au
HealthPathways SA is a partnership between SA Health, Adelaide PHN, and Country SA PHN.
