Question 1

What are the clinical cutoff scores for the GDS-15?

Accepted Answer

The GDS-15 uses: 0-4 (normal), 5-8 (mild depression), 9-11 (moderate depression), and 12-15 (severe depression). A score of 5 is the standard screening cutoff, yielding pooled sensitivity of 86% and specificity of 79% in meta-analytic data.

Question 2

Can the GDS-15 be used in patients with cognitive impairment?

Accepted Answer

The GDS-15 is valid for patients with mild to moderate cognitive impairment, generally down to MMSE scores of approximately 15/30. A large US study (N=24,674) confirmed that mild to moderate impairment does not bias scores. For severely impaired patients (MMSE below 15), the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD) is more appropriate.

Question 3

Why does the GDS-15 use a yes/no format?

Accepted Answer

The binary format was deliberately chosen to minimize cognitive burden on older adults. Likert scales require more nuanced self-assessment that can be difficult for older adults, especially those with mild cognitive impairment. The simple format improves completion rates and reliability while maintaining adequate psychometric properties.

Question 4

Is the GDS-15 valid for adults younger than 65?

Accepted Answer

Research supports GDS-15 validity in adults aged 18 and older, with one study finding AUC of 0.92 with 72% sensitivity and 97% specificity. However, the GDS-15 deliberately omits somatic symptoms important in younger populations, so instruments like the PHQ-9 are generally preferred for adults under 65.

Question 5

What does my GDS-15 score mean?

Accepted Answer

We have a detailed scoring guide that explains how to interpret your GDS-15 results, including severity ranges and recommended clinical actions. Read our full scoring guide.

GDS-15: Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form

Take the GDS-15 assessment. Brief 15-item depression screening specifically designed for older adults. Simple yes/no format validated for geriatric populations.

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