Där äldre och läkare möts i depressionen, en fenomenologisk studie om två perspektiv på äldredepression

Sammanfattning: The aim for this study was to examine the meaning constitution of elderly depression among self-identified elders and general practitioners (GP’s) in Sweden. An additional aim was to investigate possible juxtapositions of their life-worlds. The research question was stated as follows: How is meaning constituted around the concept of elderly depression among self-identified elders and GP’s in primary care? Open interviews were recorded and transcribed. A phenomenological analysis with focus on the singularity was conducted using a method based on MCA-Minerva. The perspective of the self-identified elder consisted of eleven areas of meaning constitution among which lacking social network, bodily functions and society was thought of as a negative influence on depression and social connection was seen has having a positive effect on the well-being. Ten areas of meaning constitution were found in the life world of the GP. Lacking social network, difficulties for GP’s and the hidden depression were areas of constitution influencing the meaning of elderly depression among the GP’s. The singular perspective was validated through the remaining informants’ narrative. The outcome indicates a fragmented conception of depression held by the GP, whereas the elderly conceive depression as state involving the totality of the life situation.