The Health and Social Consequences of Depression Among the Elderly

Mental illnesses often go undiagnosed or untreated in low-income settings. Mental health care may be especially important for the elderly - events in the lives of the elderly, like illnesses or deaths of peers, may put these individuals at high risk of mental illness. The study will constitute a randomized controlled trial aimed at reducing depression among elderly women. Through two interventions, the investigators will aim to improve women elder\'s outlook on life and relationships through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and facilitated group activities. There will be a total of three treatment arms: one for CBT during home visits, one for CBT and facilitated group activities, and a control group receiving neither the CBT nor facilitated group activities. Randomization will be at the hamlet/block level. A control group will receive no intervention. Investigators will track outcomes of the elderly at 3 months, 1 year, and 3 years after the intervention.