Context

Multiple epidemiological studies have found that depression is a risk factor for mortality in ageing populations.1–⇓3 For instance, a recent meta-analysis found that comorbid depression increases the risk of all-cause mortality in patients with diabetes by about 50%.2 Systematic reviews have also found that comorbid depression increases the risk of mortality in patients with coronary artery disease by up to twofold.3 However, prior studies that enhanced the quality of treatment of depression and depressive outcomes in ageing populations or those with specific chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or heart disease, …