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Saundra's Corner

Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD)

How to Use

  • The CSDD is designed to assess depression in elderly residents with dementia 
  • Takes ~ 20 minutes to administer
  • The ratings should be based on depressive symptoms and signs occurring during the week prior to the interview. No score should be given if symptoms result from physical disability or illness.
  • Information is obtained from interview of a caregiver as well as from direct observation and interview of the patient
  • If there are discrepancies in ratings, the rater should re-interview both the caregiver and the patient to resolve the discrepancies
  • The final ratings represent the rater's clinical impression rather than the responses of the caregiver or the patient
Click here for website for CSDD
 

 

How to Score

  1. The same healthcare professional should conduct the interview each time to assure consistency.
  2. The assessment should be based on the patient’s normal weekly routine.
  3. If uncertain of answers, questioning other caregivers may further define the answer.
  4. Answer all questions by placing a check in the column under the appropriately numbered answer. 
  5. Add the total score for all numbers checked for each question.
  6. Place the total score in the “SCORE” box and record any subjective observation notes in the “Notes/Current Medications”section.
  7. Assign the item a score of 0 if you cannot detect or evaluate the sign or symptom. 
  8. Scores ≥ 12 indicate probable depression. 
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Consult Pharm 1996; 11 (Suppl 4)