Social networks and their association with depression in community-dwelling older adults: a meta-analysis

Depression is a common mental health condition among older adults, while social networks offer protection. This meta-analysis quantifies the relationship between the structural aspects of social networks and depression in this population. Seven electronic databases were searched from inception until July 2023. Eligible studies focused on community-dwelling older adults (mean age ≥60), defined depression, referenced social networks in the abstract, and were published in English. Random-effects meta-analyses combined standardized beta coefficients for continuous depression outcomes and log odds for binary outcomes. Study quality, heterogeneity and potential publication bias were evaluated. Sixty-one studies met the inclusion criteria. Larger network size, frequent contact, and higher network scale scores were linked to lower depression levels, though effect sizes were modest. Network scales, incorporating structural and functional aspects, showed the strongest association with reduced depression, though this finding was rather suggestive. The distinction between family and friend networks was less significant, with combined measures and family ties showing stronger associations. Gender did not significantly influence the association, and continuous depression measures provided more nuanced insights than binary ones. Social networks offer modest protection against depression in older adults. Future research should standardize depression measures, further investigate gender and network differences, and explore long-term effects.