Background: Depression among the elderly, in general, is exacerbated by other coexisting medical problems and often the lack of social support. Some of these include cardiovascular disease, pulmonary problems, and diabetes. Loss of social support networks, lowered income levels which may require that the individual move to less familiar surroundings, and lessened mobility, all can lead to depression. In Juarez, based upon the 2000 census, the population over age 60 was 78,866, or 15% of the total population. As much as 1/3 of these individuals are at risk for the development of clinical depression. Unfortunately, few direct services or programs exist to help these people avoid full clinical depression. Estimates in the US are that only approximately 10% of the 6 million adults over age 65 who suffer from depression, are actually receiving treatment. Unfortunately, in Mexico, there are no comparable studies related to treatment of the elderly with depression. Purpose: The purpose of this project was to develop, implement, and evaluate a community-based program designed to address the issue of depression among elderly adult residents of Cuidad Juarez, Mexico. Significance: This program was initially developed as a pilot effort within a selected Colonia within Cuidad Juarez to determine the feasibility of conducting a special program for the elderly who are at risk for depression, using promotoras (community health workers) as primary providers of information. The project was also designed to be offered in the residences of the participants, thus helping build or strengthen social networks. Methods: A program initially developed at Stanford University was adapted for cultural appropriateness for use in Juarez. Discussions with promotoras were used to identify potential participants. A questionnaire was administered to identify individuals at high risk for depression who were selected for participation in the program. The program was offered over a period of 6 weeks, one time per week 2 1/2 hours per session. Findings: The various techniques that were used, including exercise, nutrition information, and communication skills, were well accepted. Significant drops in obesity, hypertension, hyperglycemia, hypercholesterolemia, and hyperlipidemia were noted. Based upon a post survey of the participants, their depression risk scores also decreased significantly. Conclusions: The program that was developed for this initial pilot project has been replicated in other Colonias and similar results were noted. This project clearly holds promise for education of a wider elderly population about depression and how they can overcome this debilitating health problem.Keyword(s): aging/older adult issues, health promotion, international issues