📄 Abstract
Introduction: Depression and cognitive impairment represent significant health problems among older adults and may coexist, making their identification and clinical management more challenging. This relationship is particularly relevant in Primary Health Care, where much of the initial assessment and follow-up of this population takes place. Objective: To analyze the relationship between depression and cognitive impairment in older adults, describing the main diagnostic challenges and comprehensive management strategies within the Chilean Primary Health Care system. Methodology: A narrative review of the scientific literature is proposed, based on a search for publications in PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar, in both Spanish and English. Observational studies, clinical trials, reviews, and meta-analyses addressing depression, cognitive impairment, differential diagnosis, and interventions in older adults are considered, with priority given to publications from 2015 to 2026. Results: The literature demonstrates an association between depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment in older adults, as well as difficulties in distinguishing between these conditions due to the overlap of their clinical manifestations. The combined assessment of emotional and cognitive status, monitoring of functional abilities, and involvement of family members and caregivers are identified as essential components. Furthermore, collaborative care models and psychosocial interventions have shown favorable results in the management of late-life depression. Conclusions: The identification of depression and cognitive impairment requires comprehensive assessment and continuous follow-up. Primary Health Care in Chile represents a strategic setting for strengthening early detection, interdisciplinary coordination, and continuity of care. Further national research is needed to adapt and evaluate interventions according to the characteristics of the Chilean older adult population.
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📚 How to Cite:
Ana Belén Valero Martillo, Regiane Vita Maximiniano, Bryam Esteban Coello García , DEPRESSION AND COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT IN OLDER ADULTS IN CHILE: DIAGNOSTIC CHALLENGES AND COMPREHENSIVE MANAGEMENT IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE , Volume 12 , Issue 11, November 2026, EPRA International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJMR) , Pages: 159 - 165 , DOI: https://doi.org/10.36713/epra32105