Mental health service utilization among demented individuals with or without mood disorders in Canada

DOI: 10.5176/2251-3833_GHC16.8

Authors: Michael Ackerman, Emma Bartfay, Wally J. Bartfay and Brenda Gamble

Abstract: Aim: To assess how comorbid mood disorders were associated with health service utilization of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias in a Canadian household population. Methods: The study utilized a population-based secondary data analysis approach, using data from the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) 2011-2012 annual component. Results: Mood disorders were found to be more prevalent among persons with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias compared to those without (26.7{6e6090cdd558c53a8bc18225ef4499fead9160abd3419ad4f137e902b483c465} vs 7.7{6e6090cdd558c53a8bc18225ef4499fead9160abd3419ad4f137e902b483c465}). Individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias and a comorbid mood disorder were more likely to use mental health services (Adj OR: 6.58, P=0.000). Conclusion: The increased usage of health services in persons with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias and a comorbid mood disorder exhibit the importance of understanding the needs of these individuals to help shift public policy. This will aid researchers in developing and implementing improved services.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, mood disorders, health service utilization