Depression is the ‘common cold’ of elderly mental health. Many older housebound patients suffer from depression. This has often not been recognised and treated. District/community nurses are the healthcare practitioners most likely to be in contact with these clients. Their role in assessing the emotional health of clients and taking action to address mental health issues is crucial. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has a strong evidence base for treatment of depression. Knowledge of its principles could be integrated into therapeutic conversations that district/community nurses have with clients.