European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine

Introduction: Depression and perceived stress are common but frequently under-recognized mental health concerns among elderly individuals. Community-level assessment is essential for identifying vulnerable older adults and planning early supportive interventions. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of depression and perceived stress among elderly individuals in a community setting and to assess the relationship between depression, perceived stress and selected socio-demographic and clinical variables. Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 elderly individuals aged 60 years and above from the Sangareddy population between November 2025 and March 2026. Socio-demographic details, living arrangement, marital status, education and chronic illness history were recorded using a structured proforma. Depression was assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale and perceived stress was assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square test, with statistical significance considered at p < 0.05. Results: The mean age of the study population was 70.4 ± 7.1 years, and females constituted 52.0%. Depressive symptoms were present in 46.0% of participants. Mild depression was observed in 28.0%, moderate depression in 14.0% and severe depression in 4.0%. Moderate perceived stress was reported by 52.0%, while 25.0% had high perceived stress. Depression was significantly associated with advanced age, living alone, widowed/single/separated status, chronic illness and higher perceived stress. Conclusion: Depression and perceived stress were common among elderly individuals in this community setting. Screening older adults for psychological distress, especially those living alone or having chronic illness, can strengthen early identification and community-based mental health support.