Background <p>Depression is a prevalent condition, particularly among older adults, yet it often remains under-recognized. In rural India, elderly, especially women, face a heightened risk of depression due to prevailing stigma and inadequate social support. This study sought to determine the prevalence of depression in Ron Taluka to inform targeted intervention strategies.</p> Objectives <p>(1) To estimate the prevalence of depression among the elderly population. (2) To examine the association between depression and socio-demographic factors.</p> Methods <p>A community-based cross sectional study was conducted on elderly people (≥ 60 years) in three villages of Ron Taluk from November 2024 to February 2025. A total of 346 participants were included in this study. Participants were selected using proportionate and systematic sampling methods. Data were collected by visiting the participants’ households using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire and the standardized World Health Organization Geriatric Depression Scale-15 (GDS-15). findings were presented using frequency distributions, percentages, and Chi-square tests.</p> Results <p>The study included 346 elderly participants and revealed an 83% prevalence of depression, primarily among males aged 60–70 years with limited educational attainment. Most participants lived in joint family settings and relied on government assistance. Only 35.5% of participants opined their health as good. Depression was correlated with variables such as sex, age, education, health status, and income.</p> Conclusion <p>The study found a high prevalence of depression among the elderly in study area, with a significant association with sex, age, education, income, and health. These findings underscore the need for community-based mental health interventions focusing on vulnerable elderly subgroups.</p>