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Gender differences in the relation between depression and social support in later life
C M Sonnenberg1, D J H Deeg, T G van Tilburg
1Department of Psychiatry and EMGO-Institute for Health and Care Research of VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands. c.sonnenberg@ggzingeest.nl
International Psychogeriatrics
|July 28, 2012
Summary
Older men are more vulnerable to depression, particularly when experiencing low social support and a high need for affiliation. Identifying and supporting these individuals is crucial for preventing late-life depression.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychiatry
- Sociology
Background:
- Late-life depression affects women more than men.
- Low social support is a known risk factor for depression in older adults.
- Gender may influence the relationship between social support and depression.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate gender differences in the association between social support and depression in older adults.
- Examine how social support and affiliation needs relate to depression onset and prevalence in later life.
- Identify specific risk factors for depression in elderly men and women.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam (LASEA).
- Analyzed a population-based sample of adults aged 55-85 years.
- Employed 13-year follow-up data to assess the onset of depression.
Main Results:
- Higher depression rates were observed in individuals lacking a partner, with small social networks, and low emotional support.
- Men exhibited higher rates of depression compared to women.
- A high need for affiliation was linked to depression in women, but not men; conversely, lack of a partner and small networks predicted depression onset in men, not women.
Conclusions:
- Low social support and high affiliation needs are associated with depression in older adults.
- Men appear more vulnerable to depression in later life compared to women.
- Interventions should focus on identifying individuals with low social support and high affiliation needs to increase support or manage needs effectively.
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