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Depression and Disability

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Physical Illness and Depression in Older Adults

Part of the book series: The Plenum Series in Social/Clinical Psychology ((SSSC))

Concluding Comments

In some lights, the connection between depression and disability seems almost commonsensical and obvious. But empirical data on the nature of this relationship suggest that the links between the two are surprisingly subtle and complex. This chapter has recommended a number of analytic strategies that could be useful to clarifying these relationships. Given the heterogeneity of both depression and disability, it is likely that simple solutions will be insufficient. In a very real sense, this complexity offers the potential that not one but a variety of strategies may be useful in reducing the burden of depression and disability in the lives of older adults.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychiatry, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, White Plains, New York, 10605

    Martha L. Bruce

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  1. Martha L. Bruce
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Editors and Affiliations

  1. University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia

    Gail M. Williamson  & David R. Shaffer  & 

  2. Genesis Health Ventures, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

    Patricia A. Parmelee

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Bruce, M.L. (2002). Depression and Disability. In: Williamson, G.M., Shaffer, D.R., Parmelee, P.A. (eds) Physical Illness and Depression in Older Adults. The Plenum Series in Social/Clinical Psychology. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/0-306-47178-7_2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/0-306-47178-7_2

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