Which of the following tools would the PMHNP use to aid in diagnosis of a 69-year-old woman with depressive symptoms?

Choice A reason: SLUMS is primarily used to screen for cognitive impairment, not depression. Choice B reason: MMSE assesses general cognitive function but does not specifically evaluate depressive symptoms. Choice C reason: GDS is a validated tool specifically designed to screen for depression in older adults, making it the most appropriate choice for this patient. Choice D reason: MoCA is used for detecting mild cognitive impairment and dementia rather than depressive symptoms.