Depression among older Japanese Americans: The impact of functional (ADL & IADL) and cognitive status

The objective of this article is to investigate the relationship between activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, cognitive impairment, and depression among Japanese American elders.

A cross-sectional study of 207 older Japanese Americans (68 years and older) was conducted in Los Angeles, California and Honolulu, Hawaii. Independent variables included activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, and cognitive functioning. Age, gender, marital status, and income were also identified. Depression was the dependent variable.

Descriptive analyses were done to show group differences in terms of gender, age and marital status. Gender (male) and marital status (married) were the determinants of lower rates of depression. Lower rates of IADL and cognitive functioning were significant determinants of higher rates of depression among older Japanese Americans.

This study provides empirical evidence that physical and cognitive functioning are directly associated with depression in older Japanese Americans. Social workers need to provide the services of ethnic-based via formal agencies in order to prevent depression of older Japanese Americans. Also, it is important to have sensitivity and competency to assess depressive symptoms and refer elders to an appropriate mental health agency.