Depression in Elderly Patients: A Reflection Using Gibbs Reflective Cycle Model

Running Head: DEPRESSION IN ELDERLY PATIENTS 1
DEPRESSION IN ELDERLY PATIENTS
Name
Institutional affiliation

DEPRESSION IN ELDERLY PATIENTS 2
Introduction
This essay will present a reflection on the topic of depression in elderly patients. In the
reflection, Gibbs reflective cycle model will be used. The essay is divided into different sections
including a description section which provides an exploration of the topic, a feelings section
which gives an account of my feelings and reactions to the topic, evaluation of the positive and
negatives of the topic and an analysis of what I have learned from the topic. Lessons from the
reflection are also presented in the conclusion section. The plan concludes with an action plan
explaining what I need to do to improve my performance
Description; Depression is one of the most common conditions affecting elderly patients. It
majorly occurs in elderly patients suffering from other disabilities and medical conditions
(Fässberg et al., 2016). Although not considered a normal part of aging, depression can occur in
patients with different medical conditions. It is majorly manifested through periods of sadness
occurring from time to time (Dowlatshahi et al., 2014). Depression in elderly patients is,
however, a medical condition that can be treated .With an increase in aging population caused by
the increased health awareness and change in dietary choices, cases of depression in aging
populations are some of those that i must deal with as a nurse (Siu et al., 2016). Depression is a
mental disorder that results in prolonged periods of sadness and loss of interest in activities.
Depression in elderly patients negatively affects how they act, think and feel. It can, therefore,
lead to significant life impartment (Polyakova et al., 2014).This essay will discuss different
aspects of depression in elderly patients. Gibbs reflective cycle will be used.
Feelings: I was alarmed by the rate at which depression in aging patients is prevalent, as well as
its impact on the general wellbeing of the elderly patients (Mansbach, Mace & Clark,2015).I felt

DEPRESSION IN ELDERLY PATIENTS 3
the knowledge and information is had about this topic before undertaking this unit was quite
insignificant. I had always thought that depression was a minor health condition, but after the
introduction to this subject, I feel differently (Wee et al., 2014). I felt embarrassed by the fact
that we had previously argued with some of my classmates about this topic in which my
argument was that depression in elderly patients is a minor issue in Singapore (Forlani et al.,
2014). I feel that I have gained much insight on this particular topic and more prepared to handle
such cases in my nursing career. I feel that this was a worth experience that has enhanced my
competence as a professional Nurse. I felt uneasy having to cope up with different viewpoints
from my team members and thought that I would have been more productive working alone. I
felt that it was quite challenging trying to understand the topic for the first time. This must have
been more demanding than I ever envisioned.
Evaluation: The topic was extremely engaging. I am happy that I was able to grasp most if not all
the concepts related to the topic. I, however, regret the fact that I had not taken much time to
carry out individual research regarding the topic before class presentations. This would have
made it easier for me to understand the topic (Young & Skorga, 2013). I am however pleased
that despite the initial challenges I experienced, in the beginning, I was able to acquire a deeper
understanding of depression in elderly patients. I was also able to demystify the myth that
depression automatically comes with old age .I too have learned that depression is not a
permanent condition but a treatable medical condition. I have also learned that depression among
aging patients is a serious issue which has been on the rise in Singapore (Boots et al., 2014). It is
estimated that 20% of patients above 75 years showing sign of depression. My concentration was
however interrupted from time to time as I thought of real-life situations that I have witnessed in
the society