Depression and its Association With Cataract Status and Self-Perceived Burden of Elderly Patients With Cataract

This study aimed to explore the status of depressive mood in elderly patients with cataract and its association with visual acuity and self-perceived burden (SPB).

A total of 210 senile patients with cataract attending the Affiliated People's Hospital of Ningbo University between January 2025 and May 2025 were assessed with the scale, and 197 valid samples were finally obtained. Data on general demographics, underlying disease and best corrected visual acuity in both eyes were collected. The SPB scale (SPBS) and the self-rating depression scale (SDS) were used to assess the psychological state of the patients. Comparisons between groups were conducted using one-way analysis of variance and the relationship among visual acuity level, SPBS and SDS was analysed. Multiple logistic regression was performed for variables with p < 0.1 in univariate analysis to identify independent risk factors for depression.

Of the 197 patients, 84 were male and 113 were female, 59.39% were aged 65 years and older and 64.97% had visual acuity of less than 0.5. The SDS scores ranged from 34 to 70, with a mean of 49.60 ± 8.33, and the total SPBS scores ranged from 12 to 44, with a mean of 26.15 ± 7.69. The Pearson's correlation showed that SDS was negatively correlated with visual acuity and significantly positively correlated with the total SPBS score and its dimensions. The results of multiple logistic regression suggested that age (OR = 1.051, p = 0.020), caregiver health status (OR = 1.968, p = 0.046) and diabetes mellitus (OR = 2.396, p = 0.038) were independent risk factors for depression in elderly patients with cataract.

Elderly patients with cataract have a high prevalence of depression, which is significantly associated with SPB and depression. Visual acuity level, age, health status of caregivers and comorbid diabetes have a significant impact on the risk of depression.