Over 18% of Americans aged 65 years and older have depression. Recent evidence suggests that
there is a link between depression and inflammatory disease. This study investigates the
relationship between inflammation in the brain and depression. Comparing biological and
psychological differences in depressed and non-depressed people allows researchers to find
better ways to treat and prevent depression. All participants will have: neuropsychological
tests, an EKG, a spinal tap, a blood draw, and, if depressed, given either an antidepressant
coupled with an anti-inflammatory medication or an anti-depressant coupled with a placebo for
six weeks. The investigators are trying to correlate brain function with depression levels
and biomarkers from the blood and spinal fluid.