Factor Structure of the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D) Among Older Men and Women Who Provide Care to Persons with Dementia

The Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression Scale (CES-D) is among the most widely used depression screening measures. Existing research suggests a higher order factor structure of responses among older adults (factors labeled as Depressive Affect, Absence of Well-being, Somatic Symptoms, and Interpersonal Affect each loading on a 2nd-order depression factor). This study extended this research to ascertain whether this structure is equivalent (or invariant) between men and women. Findings suggest that the number and relative contribution of each factor is similar for male and female caregivers of persons with dementia. Furthermore, interpretation of CES-D items is statistically indistinguishable for 17 of 20 items across gender within this randomly identified, national sample of respondents. Results of this study support the higher order factor structure of the CES-D and provide data in support of the concurrent validity and reliability of responses within a population at elevated risk for depression.